Betty Liening, age 89 of Breese and formerly of Carlyle, passed away at her home on Friday, June 6, 2025.
Betty was born in Beckemeyer, Illinois on January 4, 1936, a daughter of the late Anton and Elizabeth (Isaak) Aarns. She married John E. Liening on July 24, 1954, in Beckemeyer and he preceded her in death on May 3, 2000.
Betty was a devoted and loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose greatest joy came from spending time with her family. She cherished every moment with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, always offering her love and support. Betty was known for her generous spirit and willingness to help others, whether it was taking friends and family to appointments or simply being there when someone needed her. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life—going for drives, even if just around town, and always finding a restaurant to enjoy a good meal. Betty had a playful heart and loved gathering around the table for games, especially Rummy and Aggravation. Her warmth, kindness, and joyful presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Betty is survived by her children, Deb Meentemeyer and husband Dean, Rick Liening and fiancé Karen Rolfingsmeier, and Brian Liening and friend Paula Muessette; a son-in-law, Michael Loomis; her grandchildren, Rae Liening, Jason Kreke and wife Julie, Lauren Liening, Alexander Liening, Andra Goestenkors, and Mariah Ritchie; her great grandchildren, Bella, Leo, Silas, Elsie, Samuel, Jeremiah, James, Lydia, Benjamin, Everett, and Lewis; her sisters, Gerri Haar, Margie Gooden, Judy Heimann and husband Bob; and a brother, Carl Aarns and wife Jackie.
In addition to her parents, Betty was preceded in death by her daughter, Peggy Loomis, and two brothers, Andrew and Bob Aarns.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at St. Mary’s Church in Carlyle. A Celebration of Life will follow from 12:30 – 4:00 P.M. at St. Mary’s Parish Center.
In lieu of flowers or other gifts, the family suggests memorial donations in Betty’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association or to Hospice of Southern Illinois. Donations will be received at the service or through Zieren Funeral Home, 1111 Clinton Street, Carlyle, IL 62231. Online condolences may be shared by visiting www.ZierenFuneralHome.com.
