Elizabeth Mathers "Betty" Vonachen

Elizabeth Mathers Vonachen, lovingly known as Betty, passed away peacefully at the age of 85 on Wednesday, October 08, 2025.
Betty was born June 9, 1940, the daughter to Ansel and Evelyn (Scott) Mathers. She grew up in Peoria, where she met the love of her life, Jay, in the 7th grade. The two went on to attend the Academy of Our Lady/Spalding Institute High School (Class of 1958) and Marquette University, where Betty earned her degree in History and Literature in 1962. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised three children - Matt, Liz, and Molly.
Betty was the rock and backbone of her family - a steady, loving presence who orchestrated everything and supported Jay and her children in all their endeavors. Her creativity and energy knew no bounds. She found joy in gardening, design, architecture, politics, and fundraising, and her talents touched every corner of her community. A woman of many accomplishments, Betty served as President of the Junior League of Peoria, ran Jullip's Closet, worked for Congressman Bob Michel, and later entered the world of real estate before devoting herself fully to her family. One of her proudest achievements was establishing the Landscape Ministry at St. Thomas Catholic Parish, where she was a devoted parishioner. Betty's extended interests included the Peoria Historical Society, Lakeview Museum, the Country Club of Peoria, Minocqua Country Club, and Pelican Marsh Country Club.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Jay; her sister, Nan Mikesell (Ralph) of Dunlap, Illinois; and her children - Matt Vonachen (Lesley) of Peoria, Illinois, and their children Lucas (Sabrina), Alex (Kira), Isabella (Stephen), and Max (Kassie); Elizabeth Assalley of Fishers, Indiana, and her children Andria (Connor), Alexa, George, and Charlie; and Molly Miller (Mike) of Peoria, Illinois. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren, Cece and Quinn, children of Alex and Kira.
Betty was preceded in death by her brother, John.
Visitation will be held at Wright & Salmon Mortuary on Sunday, October 12, 2025 from 2:00 PM until time of recitation of the rosary at 6:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Thomas Catholic Church on Monday, October 13, 2025 at 11:00 AM with an additional visitation one hour prior to mass. Msgr. Gerald Ward is officiating. Entombment will follow in Resurrection Mausoleum.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Thomas Parish or the OSF Cancer Destination Center.
Friends and family are encouraged to log on to www.wrightandsalmon.com to sign the online guestbook, submit photos and share Betty's memorial page via social media.
Funeral arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Wright & Salmon Mortuary. (309-688-4441)