Search by Name

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

Margaret Elizabeth Rutter "Betty" Lyon

FUNERAL HOME

Hultgren Funeral Home and Cremation Center - Wheaton

304 N. Main St.

Wheaton, Illinois

Margaret Lyon Obituary

Margaret Elizabeth "Betty" Rutter Lyon age 91, died September 14, 2018 in Wheaton, IL after a brief illness. She is survived by a daughter, Melissa Allan, son, Robert (Norma), and two grandchildren, also of Wheaton, and by brothers John Rutter of Kirkwood, MO and Andrew Rutter of Tucson, AZ.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Sault News on Sep. 22, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Margaret Lyon

Sponsored by Hultgren Funeral Home and Cremation Center - Wheaton.

16 Entries

Prilla Anderson

October 15, 2018

Betty was my dear friend. She was a warm and empathetic woman. She had sincere interest in subjects of both the mind and the heart. She was always learning and growing. She was an active listener. She was so fun to be with. Her joy in life, and accepting smile, were contagious. She was a role model for me (and I know, so many others) with her graciousness, generosity, and courage. I can't overstate my admiration for this beautiful woman. I am blessed to have known Betty.
My condolences go out to her family who loved her, and her longtime friends. She is very missed!

Robert Lyon

October 9, 2018

Oh God. Give me the strength to live another day; Let me not turn coward before its difficulties or prove disloyal to its duties; Let me not lose faith in other people; Keep me sweet and sound of heart, in spite of ingratitude, treachery or meanness; Preserve me from minding little stings or giving them; Help me to keep my heart clean and to live so honestly and fearlessly that no outward failure can dishearten me or take away the joy of conscious integrity; Open wide the eyes of my soul that I
may see good in all things; Grant me this day some new vision of thy truth; Inspire me with joy and
gladness; And make me the cup of strength to suffering souls; In the name of the strong Deliverer, our only Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Read during the Memorial Service

Robert Lyon

October 8, 2018

My final comments during my Mother's celebration of Life service at Gary Methodist Church in Wheaton. In closing, I would like to read something that was special to my Mother. It was from a local 1938 newspaper clipping that my Mother had placed in her own Mother - Ellas, book of Common Prayer. Ella, the grandmother I never met, passed away in 1938. I feel so fortunate to have a mother for 91 years, compared to only 11 the years my Mother had with hers. The clipping was titled in Memory of a Mother

I remember thee in this solemn hour, my dear mother I remember the days when thou didst dwell on Earth and thy tender love watched over me like a guardian angel. Thou hast gone from me, but the bond which unites our souls can never be severed; thine image lives within my heart. May the merciful Father reward thee for the faithfulness and kindness though hast ever shown to me and many others; may he lift up the light of his countenance upon thee and grant thee eternal peace! Amen

As Christians while we may miss her physical presence with us, we recognize she now is in heaven. Her 91 years of life on earth represents only a few seconds of time when we consider the eternity with God she is now experiencing. We love you Mom.

Elizabeth Lyon

October 8, 2018

Life update: one of the world's most amazing women passed early today. She shaped me. Challenged me.
Encouraged me. Was a part of making me and many more. She looked to the world and observed so much. My life is filled with precious, priceless memories. She found joy in the complexity of this earth, in music, in culture, in place, in art. She taught me that you never stop learning and building lifelong friendships. My home and life are filled with her and her impact.
I have a my fight song, with amazing grace beyond words...she always encouraged me to be more and be beyond not only in her words - but her most simplistic of actions. Words will never be enough - her joy, actions and faith endure.
Granny, your legacy will forever love and live forward. I miss you beyond words, and thankful for the honor of being yours. I am honored to carry our history, your legacy and live with grace and passion.

MELISSA FAITH ALLAN

October 7, 2018

What can I possibly say to summarize my Mothers lifetime in a few short minutes? I guess I would say she always prioritized her relationships. Over the years she cultivated a rich tapestry of valued friendships because she was approachable and disarming. Her sweet smile and personal charisma kept them near because she was always more interested in what was going on in your life, rather than quickly sharing her own. For more than 65 years, the ancient U.S. postal mailbox was also a weekly mail drop for those relationships. How did these come about? A neighbor for a child's play date, a small group from church or bible study, parent of one of her children's friends, the garden club or by her charming traveling mercies approaching strangers. "Don't buy that rhubarb at Aldi's, come a few blocks over to my house for mine that is fresher." Oh, my plane's seatmate transportation can't come from Lake Geneva to pick her up because of a snow storm. "Hey lady, if you are willing to take a chance on me, I am willing to take a chance on you. Come in my limo and stay overnight with me and when the weather is better, go home then."
She forever loved weeding, digging in the dirt tending her perennials. Multiplying and dividing so she could share with new plant mothers and fathers. She also gardened in these church beds, as well as serving communion here. She helped acclimate refuge families. She was depression era penny wise. She loved to work and invite people over for tea and desserts. Maybe she met these people at a thrift shop (Diedre) or strolling a sidewalk in Glen Ellen admiring a garden (Sandy), so she found a close friend.
She was my advocate, my cheer leader, my seat mate, my best friend. Welcome to your heavenly home, where you love a parade and where you can sing with the Angels. HALLELUJAH

Heather Ann Martinez

September 27, 2018

Betty was one of the kindest people I have ever met. She was always helping someone. She always found something funny to cause me to laugh about. She did not waiver in having hope for tomorrow. She taught me to enjoy this hour and this day. I am comforted to know she is in the arms of our loving savior, Jesus.

William H Craig

September 26, 2018

My good wife Phyllis, (Root), (Frost), Craig was a Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan high school classmate and longtime friend to Betty. I am happy to say that I, through Phyllis, became friends with Betty and her brother Andy. It was a pleasure for us to participate in the yearly Soo High reunions and our great visits with Betty and her brother. The conversations we had at these reunions enhanced our respect for one-another along with nostalgic memories of our "Lock City" in northern Michigan. Phyllis passed away in February 2016, from her ten-year bout with Alzheimer's disease. I know they are together now, talking about their high school days. I will remember Betty and her brother Andy for their brightness, foresight and their love of humanity. Phyllis always described Betty best when she would tell me what Betty's father would say to her, "Betty,you're a brick."

Casady Herding

September 23, 2018

Our hearts are full of love and memories of Aunt Betty. She was generous and joyful, always thinking of others. I loved watching her animated conversations with her "kid brother," my father, on those occasions when they were together. She honored me with her visit when I was attending the University of Edinburgh, making the 10-hour round-trip train ride from London for a brief but cherished overnight stay, during which she wanted to meet my friends, see my accommodations, and see the city through my eyes. Her quiet strength, love of learning and appreciation of small moments will continue to inspire me to look for the beauty in the everyday. Loving sympathy for Aunt's Betty's friends and family as we celebrate her spirit and honor her legacy.

A few of the High Spirit ladies.

Janice Vander Molen

September 23, 2018

I met Betty while visiting her from our church. She kindly invited me in to chat and we became friends. We chuckled over the fact that she was from Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan and my husband and I spent our honeymoon there. Will always appreciate the encouragement she offered when finding out I was attending college at a late age. Her garden, teas and Bible studies will remain fond memories as will her laugh. Here is a picture of Betty and some of the High Spirits group of Bible studying friends. Praying for comfort for Melissa, Bob and all her family. Jan

Ben Tumuheirwe

September 23, 2018

Rest in the everlasting joy of the redeemed of the Lord dearest Mother Lyon (Isaiah 57: 1-2)

Tom Walker

September 21, 2018

When we first moved to Wheaton and began serving in the ministry at Gary Church, Betty became a very special person to me as I tried to find my way in a new position. She was always so kind, gracious, and encouraging, and I will always remember her gentle and caring spirit. We will miss her, as I know you do too, but are very thankful that she was in our lives during my early years in ministry with her encouragement and support. May God comfort and bless you and your family during this time.

Tom and Ellyn Walker

Natalie Lombard

September 21, 2018

Betty will always remain in my memory as a lady of elegant fashion. She wore her own expression of the 1930s-40s style with panache! She was not governed by current fashion fads but wore her preferences with gentle flare, and that winsome glow of a woman who knew she looked wonderful in her own style. One day Betty and I laughed and laughed as we tried on each of her hats. On each of our cup o' tea visits, she would ask me to choose whatever set of china I'd like. She could talk on most any subject, especially interested in the inner journey of the artist, giftings we both shared. She radiated grace and stalwart strength and enfolding warmth. Thank You, Lord, for Your gift of Betty to all of us who have known her!

Kris Novak

September 19, 2018

So many cherished memories of Betty's sweet spirit and ever present smile. She was a wonderful hostess who loved to share her home with friends. Many special memories of Bible studies, luncheons and lively conversation with Betty. She had a special warmth and such an endearing personality. Just thinking of her brings a smile to my heart. Rest in peace with your beloved Savior, Betty.

Katherine McCaughan

September 17, 2018

Betty was a very special person. When we first moved to the US from Australia, Betty was a rock we could rely on in many ways. Later, when she moved to Sydney, Betty became good friends with our parents. Bettys keen intellect and many interests made her always an interesting companion, and her compassion and thoughtfulness was appreciated by her wide circle of friends. She will be greatly missed.
Our sympathy to Melissa, Robert and all the family.
Arthur and Katherine McCaughan and family

Nancy Lydon

September 16, 2018

We are so sorry for your loss. We were neighbors of Betty's for over 40 years on Park Avenue. Betty would share her flowers with me and always ask how everyone was doing. Had lunch with her about 3 years ago and she was so bubbly and cheery. We will always remember her that way. To this day every time I look at the hosta plants in my yard I think of Betty. She will always be remembered. God Bless.

Patrick and Nancy Lydon

The Hultgren Family and Staff

September 15, 2018

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

Showing 1 - 16 of 16 results