Obituary: Betty Vining

Obituary published and funeral arrangements entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory.

Betty Elaine Hubbard Vining, age 91, passed away on Monday, December 8, 2025, at Morris Hospital, with her family by her side.

Betty grew up in the small town of White Hall, Illinois. She was the youngest of eight children. Despite the challenges of a large family, working as tenant farmers, they all became successful contributors to our country. They were veterans, teachers, social workers, nurses, a lawyer and a Judge. They were always giving back and proud to be Americans.

Betty met her husband, Clayton, while she was serving punch at a Military gathering during the Korean War. They were dedicated to each other for over 60 years, until Clayton's passing in 2014. They married on Valentine's Day, February 14, 1954, in White Hall, IL, before returning to Purdue University, where Clayton had been given a football scholarship to complete college. Their first of four children arrived in 1955, a son, Bruce, followed by three daughters, Vicki Ann, Deborah Elayne, and Jennifer Leigh.

They moved many times throughout the country, as Clayton continued his successful career. Betty was busy raising her four children. As they grew to school age, she embraced the opportunity to work in social services, which she enjoyed for many years in the Chicago area. She was employed by TAG Home for Children as a social worker. As they moved closer to retirement, she continued to help others with incredible dedication to her volunteer work in her community.

Betty and Clayton relocated from Groveland to Morris in 2009. She was grateful for the generosity of what became her new home for the past 16 years, with not only family, but also wonderful friends and neighbors.

Betty was incredibly proud of all the accomplishments of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, many of whom have continued the tradition of careers that contribute to the wellness of others.

She is survived by her two daughters, Vicki Geiger of Morris and Jennifer Lavin of The Villages in Florida, along with their 14 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Clayton; two children, Bruce Vining and Deborah Ryva; parents, Earl and Mabel (Rollins) Hubbard; and seven siblings.

Betty was a friend to all who knew her, always making time to help others. She will be greatly missed.

A Memorial Gathering for Betty E. Vining will be held Saturday, December 20, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 1201 W. Route 6 at Deerpath Drive, Morris, IL.

For information, please call (815) 942-5040 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave a condolence.

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