Betty Ruth Heiar

DESOTO – Betty Ruth Heiar, 91, passed away on Tuesday, March 2, 2021 at Memorial Hospital of Carbondale.



She was born on July 16, 1929 in De Soto to Albert and Rebecca (Nausley) Jones on her family’s local farm.



Betty was steadfast in pursuing her goal in achieving a college degree and graduated from SIU on the Dean’s List with a Bachelor’s degree in Health Care Administration at the age of 50. She became a registered respiratory therapist and worked at Memorial Hospital of Carbondale and Marshall Browning Hospital in Du Quoin for many years until she retired. After retiring, she devoted her time to substitute teaching at the area local schools for several years. Many of her students often called her Grandma or Aunt Betty. She also served as activity directors at some nursing homes and campground facilities.



When Betty first saw an airplane as a child, she told herself that one day, she would fly on one. This sparked a wanderlust in her that became one of the greatest joys of her life. She was an avid traveler taking trips around the world. One of her favorite destination was Hawaii which she visited several times with many family members including her grandson and granddaughter. She was fortunate to attend and take her grandson to the World’s Fair of 1982 in Knoxville, TN. Her favorite traveling companion was her son, Larry. They went on several cruises throughout the years. She particularly enjoyed their trip to Alaska.



Betty played the piano at church, nursing homes and activity centers. She enjoyed gardening both flowers and vegetables. When visiting, she would often be baking, cooking, and/or canning fruits and vegetables. It wasn’t unusual to see her creativity of knitting, crocheting, latch hooking rugs or making ceramics. She loved to read and was often caught reading her favorite romance novels. Camping was also a fun time at the local campsite or making a trip in her motor home.



Betty was a member of the United Methodist Church of De Soto and belonged to the Order of the Eastern Star where she was a Past Worthy Matron.



Betty is survived by her two children Larry Johnson and Jesse Crow and wife Karen; two grandchildren Sara and Heath Crow and wife Donna; great-grandchild, Haylee Crow and one brother, David Jones and wife Viola of De Soto; several nephews, nieces and great nephews and nieces.



She was preceded in death by her parents; and three brothers, Larry Bill, Don, and Bob Jones.



Graveside services for Betty will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 9, 2021 at De Soto Township Cemetery with Pastor Danny Norman officiating.



Memorials may be made to the Senior Adult Services in Carbondale.



Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale is in charge of arrangements. To leave a story or memory of Betty, please visit www.meredithfh.com