Betty K. Speck

Betty K. Speck, age 91 years, a resident of the Brownfield community in Pope County, Illinois and a former resident of Johnson County for 41 years, passed away Friday morning, December 27, 2024, at 12:37 A.M. at the Metropolis Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Betty was born October 1, 1933 in Johnson County Illinois. She was the fourth of five children born to Earl and Claris (Kerley) Wright. On August 24, 1974, Betty was united in marriage to Wayne Speck at the Simpson Baptist Church. Together, Wayne and Betty, had shared over 50 years of marriage. In addition to her devoted husband, Betty is survived by: a daughter – Carolyn Mount of Vienna, Illinois; grandchildren – Heath (Christy) Gorden of Benton, Illinois and Misty (B.J.) Barger of Vienna, Illinois; great grandchildren – Madison (Wyatt) Bridges of Edwardsville, Illinois and Collin Miller of Benton, Illinois; a sister-in-law – Mary King of Elgin, Illinois; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends and neighbors. In addition to her parents, Betty was preceded in death by 4 brothers – Hal, Bill, Jean and Buster Wright; a son-in-law – Jerry Mount and a brother-in-law – Carlos King. Betty attended Vienna High School. She earned her L.P.N. (Licensed Practical Nurse) certification from Shawnee Community College. Betty was employed in the surgical department at the former Marion Memorial Hospital. She later was employed at the Hillview Health Care Center in Vienna prior to beginning her career in Health Services at the Vienna Correctional Center. She retired with 16 years of service. Betty was a member of the Pope County Homemaker’s Extension. She enjoyed crafting, making ceramics, and quilting. Betty and Wayne also enjoyed traveling. Betty is remembered for “always being busy.” She never saw a stranger and was always there to help her family, friends and neighbors. Betty was a devout Christian and faithful member of the Glendale United Methodist Church. She had taught children’s Sunday School and volunteered in Bible School. Betty also served for a number of years as the president of the Mary Circle. Funeral services will be held Monday, December 30, 2024, at 2 P.M. at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. Pastor David Wright and Pastor Pete Ryan will officiate. Burial will be in the Metropolis Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be conducted Monday afternoon, December 30, 2024, from 12 Noon until the funeral hour at 2 P.M. at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Glendale United Methodist Church, c/o Charlotte Benard, 45 Cedar Grove Road, Simpson, Illinois 62985.

Betty K. Speck

October 1, 1933 - December 27, 2024