Betty Ann Jennings

DESOTO - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Betty Ann Jennings, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, who departed this life on Monday, December 8, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on October 12, 1932, in De Soto, Illinois, Betty spent her life enriching the lives of those around her.

Betty was a lifelong resident of De Soto, where she proudly contributed to her community. She married Thomas Van Jennings on December 17, 1954 in DeSoto. She earned a Cosmetology degree at John A. Logan College and devoted a significant portion of her life to her craft as a hairdresser, touching the lives of many with her skill and warmth. Betty was a cherished member of the DeSoto First Baptist Church where she taught Sunday School, Betty found strength and solace in her faith, and she positively influenced countless lives through her unwavering commitment to her church and community.

Above all, Betty was a devoted mother to her son, Michael (Sue) Jennings, and her daughter, Rhonda Hooper. She held a special place in her heart for her grandchildren who called her Nan, Heather Rushing, Bryan (Jessica) Jennings, Brittany (Thomas) Nickell and Bret Hooper and great-grandchildren, Ryan, Ashlyn, Olivia, Claire, Adelaide, Henry and Eleanor, whose lives she nurtured with love and affection. Other survivors include several nieces and nephews. Her family was her greatest joy, and her memory will be forever cherished by them.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Van Jennings; mother, Florence (Brown) Watson; and two brothers, James and Bob Wallace.

Funeral services to celebrate Betty's life and legacy will be held at 12:00pm on Monday, December 15, 2025 at Meredith Funeral Home with Pastors Chris Hottensen and Scott Foster officiating. Burial will follow at DeSoto Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10:00am until the time of service on Monday at the funeral home.

Betty Ann Jennings will be remembered not only for her contributions to her community but also for the love, kindness, and generosity she bestowed upon everyone fortunate enough to know her. She will be profoundly missed, and her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that those wishing to honor Betty's memory consider a donation to the DeSoto First Baptist Church and will be accepted at the funeral home.

Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale assisted the family with arrangements. To leave a story or memory of Betty visit www.meredithfh.com