ELKHART — Betty L. Chappell, 78, of Elkhart, passed away at the Center for Hospice Care in Elkhart at 2 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, following an extended illness.

She was born in Benton Harbor, Mich., on Jan. 29, 1936, to the late Harry and Margaret (Watts) Chappell.

Surviving is her daughter-in-law, Ethel M. Lacsamana of Elkhart.

Preceding her in death were a sister and a son, Kevin Lacsamana.

A graveside service will be at 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19, in Little Pine Cemetery in Goshen. A fellowship reception will follow from 4 to 7 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Elkhart, 53953 C.R. 17, Bristol. Pastor John Blodgett will officiate.

Billings Funeral Home of Elkhart has been assisting the family with arrangements.

Betty was a nurse for many years while living in Tucson, Ariz., then worked for the Bayer Corp. until her retirement in the early 1990s. An avid animal lover, she enjoyed spending time with the household cats, Pixie and Dixie, and watching TV murder mysteries.

Memorial donations may be given to the church or the Humane Society of Elkhart County.

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