Betty M. Hamilton, age 87, of Mendon, passed away Tuesday, March 1, 2016 at St. Rita's Medical Center in Lima.

She was born November 24, 1928 in Montezuma, to the late Ralph & Helen (Ritchie) Long.

Betty married Larry D. Hamilton on March 5, 1961, and he survives, along with their Children: Michael Hamilton of Mendon and Beth (Tom) Hoenie of Celina, 4 Grandchildren: Lisa, Katie, John & Joshua Hoenie, a Sister: Jennie Merkle of Montezuma, Sisters-In-law: Eva Ritchie of Celina and Deanne (Norman) VanTilburg of Rockford, and many Nieces & Nephews.

She was preceded in death by a Sister: Viola Miller, a Half-Brother: Robert Ritchie Sr., and Brothers-in-law: Lewis Merkle Jr. and Ril Miller.

A 1946 graduate of Celina High School, Betty had worked in Celina at the former Barr's 5 & 10¢ Store, and then at Reynolds & Reynolds for 10 years.

Betty was a Homemaker, and loved gardening. She was known for growing hundreds of gladiolas, as well as many other flowers, and enjoyed cooking and canning. She loved cats and traveling. Sewing was another favorite pastime for Betty. She liked to make clothing for her family, and also handcrafted Christmas gifts for them.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 A.M., Friday, March 4, at Mt. Tabor Church of God, Celina, with Rev. Tim Hollinger and Rev. Richard Van Horn, officiating. Burial will follow at Mendon Cemetery.

Calling Hours are 2-4:00 & 6-8:00 P.M., Thursday, March 3 at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home in Mendon, and from 10-11:00 A.M. on Friday at the church.

Condolences may be expressed at: dickandsonshellwarthfh.com.