Elizabeth "Betty" E. Cottom

Elizabeth “Betty” E. Cottom, 88, of Galesburg, died at 10:24 p.m. Wednesday evening February 22, 2012 at Seminary Manor, Galesburg. Betty was born November 26, 1923 in New Hradec, ND the daughter of Wencel and Philomina “Minnie” (Mihulkie) Kostelecky.  She married Earl M. Cottom on January 28, 1946 in Galesburg, IL  He preceded her in death on December 27, 2000. Betty graduated from Versippi High School in Dickinson, ND.  She worked at Butler Mfg during WWII, then worked at Coca Cola Bottling Plant for several years, and last worked at Admiral until her retirement in 1986.  Betty and Earl were active member in the Western Illinois Antique Auto Club.  She devoted much of her free time to God, and was the first member of Good News Baptist Church in Galesburg.  Betty enjoyed crocheting and playing bingo.  She truly enjoyed gardening and working her yard. Betty is survived by her sons, Alan of Victoria and David (Laurie) of Knoxville; a daughter, Judy (Jerry) French of Camas,WA; and her sisters, Stazie Peterson of Cocoa Beach, FL and Alice Thompson of Waurika, OK.  She is also survived by her 7 grandchildren, Robert Jeremy, Julie, Michelle, Monica, Marcy, and Melissa; 18 great grandchildren; and her caregiver, Robin Cottom of Victoria.  Betty was preceded in death by her husband, 2 sisters, and 2 brothers. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Monday at Watson Funeral Home, with Rev. Rick Shriber officiating.  Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery, Galesburg.  Visitation will be Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. at Watson Funeral Home.  Memorials may be made to the Good News Baptist Church or to the Seminary Manor Residents fund.