Betty Ann (O'Neal) Massey

Betty Ann Massey (nee O'Neal), 76, from Staunton passed away peacefully Saturday, July 22, 2023 at Arcola Health Center in Arcola, Illinois.  

Betty was born May 3, 1947 to Robert "Bob" & Olga "Butch" O'Neal (nee Pernichele) at St. Francis Hospital in Litchfield, Illinois.  Betty attended St. Michael's School & Staunton High School, graduating in 1965.  Betty graduated from Eastern Illinois University in 1972 with a BS in Home Economics with an emphasis on Home Economics in Business.  During her time at EIU she was a photographer for the Warbler, EIU's student yearbook, as well as The Eastern, EIU's student newspaper.

Betty worked for Myers Brothers, McDonnell Douglas, & for many years at Cassens Transport Company in Edwardsville, IL, retiring in time to be a wonderful grandmother & further pursue her interests.

Betty enjoyed movies, photography, vacations, & holidays.  She documented every family occasion in detail & was known as the family photographer.  She lit up around children & became an expert at snapping the perfect photo of all the youngest family members during holiday gatherings, no matter how naughty some of the kids were being!  The photos she took represent cherished family memories and will be a link to the past for future generations.

She enjoyed music in many forms, singing in the choir at St. Michael's Church where she was a member for many years.  Betty also was very involved with genealogy, tracing family lineages for generations & helping others with their research.

Betty loved football & attended many high school & professional games.  She could often be found yelling at the television on Sunday afternoons & Monday nights.  She also attended many performances at the Fox Theatre & The Muny.  She later developed a talent for creating beautiful cards utilizing her scrapbooking & stamp art skills.

Betty is survived by her daughter, Cathy Brister, & grandson, Matthew Brister, Uncle Albert (Mary) Pernichele of Corvalis, MT, & many cousins.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Aunts Elsie (husband Armond) Pacchetti, Peggy (husband Frank) Martini, & Lynette (husband George) Spudich,  Uncles Geno (wife June) Pernichele,  Bruno (wife Mary) Pernichele, & Calvin (wife Mary) O'Neal.

Betty wished for her remains to be cremated & buried with her parents.  A private graveside service will be held at a later date.

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