Betty Ely

Betty Jo (Ryland) Ely, of Chillicothe, passed away on Sunday, August 22, 2010 following her long, hard fought battle with cancer. She was born on November 22, 1937 in Omaha, Nebraska, a daughter of Ted (Lester Clarence) Ryland and Rosa Lee (Castle) Ryland. On February 3, 1955 she married Ivan R. Ely, who survives. Betty is also survived by four sons, Michael R. Ely and wife Lisa Ely of Pickerington, Ohio, Ted C. Ely, Ph.D. of Chillicothe, Mark C. Ely, Ph.D. and wife Brenda L. Ely of Salt Lake City, Utah, and Eric D. Ely and wife Sharon Ely of Schenectady, New York; 10 grandchildren (Dr. Brian M. Ely, Erika E. Mullins, Seth R. Ely, Joshua D. Ely, Steven C. Ely, Shawn M. Ely, Sarah L. Ely, Emily Ely, Adam L. Ely, and Makayla J. Ely; 2 adopted grandchildren (Elizabeth and Nate Ely); and 6 great grandchildren (William M. Ely, Allison M. Ely, Alexus A. Ely, Lana J. Mullins, Claire E. Mullins, and Kendra L. Ely). Mom had a passion for life. She had many interests and could do so many things well, as comfortable helping remodel a house as she was cooking or sewing. She enjoyed teaching Sunday school and was a Notary Public for many years. Her main passion was for collecting antiques with her husband Ivan. They traveled the country together searching for unique pieces. Her wisdom, strength, intelligence, and courage were unparalled. She worked hard, and she encouraged others to do the same. In every way, she was the most perfect model for those who knew her. As a human being, her strength of will had no rival. As a mother, she had no equal. Although her physical presence will no longer guide us, she will continue to influence everything we do. Her words will echo in the hearts, souls, and minds of those she leaves behind. That is her gift and her legacy to all of us. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Thursday, August 26, at Haller Funeral Home, 1661 Western Avenue in Chillicothe. Friends may call on Wednesday from 6-8 P.M. at the Haller Funeral Home. Interment will follow at 2pm in New Marshfield Cemetery in New Marshfield, Ohio in Athens County.
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