Betty Jean Vrell

Betty Jean Vrell, 82, of Peoria, Illinois passed away on Sunday, August 5, 2018 at her residence.  She was born at home on November 30, 1935 in Metamora, Illinois to Henry and Thelma (Klein) Zoss.  On June 6, 1959 she married Thornton “Tony” Vrell, the love of her life, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Metamora, IL.

In addition to her husband, Tony Vrell, of Peoria, Illinois, she is survived by her daughters Linda (Patrick) O’Brien of Springfield, IL, Sandra Vrell of Long Beach, CA, and Rhonda Vrell of High Point, NC; granddaughters Colleen and Mary O’Brien of Springfield; and brothers Dean Zoss of East Peoria, IL and Larry Zoss of Tremont, IL.  She was preceded in death by her parents and sister Linda Zoss.

Betty grew up in Metamora, but she and Tony moved many times during their marriage to California, Illinois, Ohio, Australia, and eventually splitting their time between Illinois and Florida.  Betty was always a dedicated homemaker and often times a caretaker for members of the extended family. She loved entertaining, whether it was for family, friends, business associates or clients for Tony’s job, her Entre Nous and Gourmet groups, or any other reason. Somehow, she still found time to be involved with the St. Vincent Christmas Bazaar, Bergan Silent Auction, Garden Club, and Antiques Club.

Betty prided herself in being the independent, tireless, and strong matriarch of the family.  She was a fierce advocate for husband Tony and his needs until the very end. Her absence is acutely felt by those she loved the most.

Cremation rites have been accorded.  A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, August 10, 2018 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Metamora with Father Tom Taylor officiating.  Visitation will be held from 9:30 am until service time on Friday at the church.  Private burial of ashes will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Metamora at a later date.  In lieu of flowers memorials in Betty’s name may be given to Catholic Relief Services, P.O. Box 17090, Baltimore, MD 21297-0303.  Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

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