Frances Evelyn Bellis

Frances Evelyn Botruff Bellis, 95, a resident of Seminary Manor, went to her Heavenly Home on July 2, 2013. Frances was born on January 26, 1918 the only child of Floyd and Hilda (Collett) Botruff.  She graduated from Galesburg High School in 1935 and from the former Browns Business College.  Frances married Joseph G. Bellis on June 12, 1938 in Iowa.  He preceded her in death on June 28, 1992.  Frances is survived by her daughter, Merrily (Ralph) Sargent of rural Knoxville; grandchildren, Andy (Stormy) Sargent of Knoxville, Jennifer (Phil) Steinle of Shawnee, Kansas, Mark (Renee) Spenny of Hanna City, Julie (Brian) Kaminski of Carol Stream, Cara Bannon of Channahon, Amy (Fiancée, Jarod Dzekunskas) Harpman of Williamsfield, Ambra (Shane White) Haake of Groveland, and Brandon (Madalyn) Haake of Lexington, KY.  Nine great grandchildren; Eve, August, Renee, Tyson, Emma, Ethan, Meredith, Joshua and Jacob. Those preceding her in death were her parents, husband, daughter Barbara Harpman on September 18, 2011. Frances played the piano for the Wayne and Velma Dance studio and was active in her children’s activities when growing up.  She was a member of First Lutheran Church and was a member of WELCA (Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church), Christiana Circle and Piecemakers.  Frances enjoyed being with her family, music, sewing and gardening. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday, July 6, 2013 at First Lutheran Church.  Rev. Pamela Marolla will officiate.  Burial will follow in Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens.  Visitation will be from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the church.  Memorials may be made to First Lutheran Church Organ Fund or to the Bell Tower Fund.  Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Watson-Thomas Funeral Home, Galesburg.