Pawnee — Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, teacher, and friend, Betty Louella Waldhauser (Landon) passed away peacefully at the age of 81 on June 25, 2025, at her home in Pawnee, Illinois, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on Sept. 18, 1943, in Joliet, Illinois, Betty grew up with deep roots in the community. She graduated from Lockport High School in 1961 and married Ralph Waldhauser on June 15, 1963, at First United Methodist Church in Lockport. She went on to earn her degree from the University of Illinois in 1967 — a milestone that marked the beginning of her lifelong passion for education and her unwavering loyalty to the Fighting Illini.

Betty dedicated her life to teaching, spending many years inspiring students in the classroom. She retired in 2007 from Pawnee High School, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, wisdom, and encouragement that touched countless lives.

A long-time member of the First United Methodist Church in Springfield, Illinois, Betty lived her faith through service, friendship, and deep care for those around her. She loved cheering on the Illini, tailgating with family and friends, playing bridge, traveling, and — most of all — spending time with her beloved grandchildren.

Her greatest joy was her family. Betty is survived by her devoted husband of over 62 years, Ralph Waldhauser, of Pawnee; her son, Mark (Christine Salzeider) Waldhauser, of Pawnee; her daughters, Beth (Tim Short) Waldhauser of Urbana, Illinois, and Jann (Brian) Lumbrazo of Lemont, Illinois. She adored her grandchildren, Landon Waldhauser of St. Charles, Missouri, and Kaylee Lumbrazo of Lemont, Illinois, who brought light and laughter in to her every day.

She is also lovingly remembered by her many step-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, step-great-grandchildren, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Francis and Louella Landon (Baumgartner), and her sister, Gayle Glover (Landon).

Her absence will be deeply felt by the countless friends and family who cherished her wit, her bright smile, her resilience in the face of challenges, and above all, her deep and unconditional love. Whether in the stands of a game, around the bridge table, or at the family dinner table, Betty brought warmth and joy to every gathering.

A celebration of Betty's life will be held from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, 2025, at the Pawnee Fire Department at 711 8th St. in Pawnee, with Rev. Nick Jordan officiating. Lunch will be served.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Betty's memory may be made to First United Methodist Church, 2941 S. Koke Mill Road, Springfield, IL 62711.

Curry Funeral Home in Pawnee is serving the family of Betty Waldhauser. Online condolences may be expressed at www.curryfh.com.