Karilyn ‘Kay’ Betler – Formerly of Charleroi

Karilyn Kay Betler Karilyn “Kay” Betler was born on March 1, 1939, in Lock Four, Pa., to parents Kenneth Booth and Freda Fresh Booth. Karilyn grew up in Charleroi and graduated from Charleroi High School. Karilyn met Kenneth Betler while in high school. They were married Sept. 14, 1957. They have two daughters, Kara Lynn (Joseph) Reber and Kendra Leann (Brian) Vanzo. Kay and Ken transferred to Illinois in 1972 with Ken’s job at Lee Norse. Kay did seamstress work from her home before working for 12 years in the Christian County Courthouse for County Treasurer James Jordan. Kay enjoyed supporting the youth of First United Methodist Church and was youth director in the 1970s. When Lee Norse closed in Taylorville, they moved to Litchfield with Ken’s work. Kay became employed at Meinschein Funeral Home. They lived in Litchfield for three years before moving to Danville, Ill., for 15 years. Kay worked at Lakeside Funeral Chapel, where she was office manager for four funeral homes. When she retired in 2005, they moved back to Taylorville. Known for her incredible talent with a needle and thread, Kay was an avid sewer who crafted beautiful quilts, clothing and handmade treasures for family and friends. She walked 12 blocks a day to keep active. For fun, Kay enjoyed playing bingo and going on trips with Ken. She was preceded in death by her mother, Freda Smith; brother, Gary Clifford Booth; and stepfather, Ed “Ozzie” Smith. She is survived by her two daughters; two granddaughters, Kaytlyn (Tom) Eversole and Kenzie (Robert) Bates; and several nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be held at noon CT Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024, at First United Methodist Church in Taylorville, Ill., preceded by visitation at 10 a.m. CT. RORTVEDT FUNERAL SERVICES in Tilton, Ill. is honored to assist the family. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to Youth Programs of First United Methodist Church of Taylorville. Online condolences: www.rortvedtfuneralservices. com.