Betty J. Strode, 97, formerly of Centralia, IL, passed away Thursday, May 21, 2026, at La Bella of Freeburg, IL. She was born on June 11, 1928, in Poplar Bluff, MO, the daughter of Clyde and Ruth (Holt) Hogg. She married John Acre and he preceded her in death.
Survivors include her son, Tom Acre of O’Fallon, IL; her daughter, Ann Murray and husband Tony O’Fallon, MO; three grandchildren, Jodi Armstrong and husband Mike, Drew Murray, and Dustin Acre; three great-grandchildren, Ace Armstrong, Jerzi Armstrong, and Audrey Murray; and extended family members and friends. Along with her husband, John Acre, Betty was preceded in death by her parents.
Betty worked as a loyal employee of the Social Security Administration until her retirement. She was a member of Calumet Street Christian Church in Centralia. Betty’s compassionate nature led her to volunteer at the Centralia Public Library and as a pink lady at St. Mary’s Hospital in Centralia.
Graveside service will be held at Poplar Bluff, MO at a later date. Memorials may be made in Betty’s honor to Hospice of Southern Illinois, 305 S Illinois, Belleville, IL 62220. Online condolences and memories of Betty may be shared with her family by visiting maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia is privileged to be assisting Betty’s family with arrangements.
