Published on December 1, 2025 2:47 pm
Last Updated on December 1, 2025 2:47 pm
Mary Elizabeth “Betty” Warfel, 60, of Neoga, Illinois passed away at 10:04 AM Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital in Effingham, Illinois.
She was born October 6, 1965 in Mattoon, Illinois, the daughter of Robert “Calvin” and Joan Patricia “Pat” (FitzGerald) Warfel. Betty was a caregiver for her mother and a core figure in the life of her niece, Becca (m. Adam Nail). Betty was also a long-time employee of Kingery Printing in Effingham, Illinois. She enjoyed reading, snuggling her great-niece Piper, and adventuring with family. She loved animals, except snakes. She will be remembered for her sense of humor, feistiness, and loyalty. Love for her (perhaps ironically, given her stature) reached great heights.
She is survived by her brothers Michael Warfel (Rita) of Avoca, Michigan; James Warfel of Michigan City, Indiana, Nancy Verdeyen of LaPorte, Indiana; Bill Warfel (Nancy) of Tolono, Illinois; and Marion Warfel (Lisa) of Dieterich, Illinois. She is also survived by her sisters Theresa Pollum of Effingham, Illinois; Regina Lirely of Effingham, Illinois; and Sara Warfel of Neoga, Illinois. She is remembered fondly by her literal posse of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents, brother Mark Warfel, and sister Kathy Visak.
Visitation will be from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Thursday, December 18 at St. Michael’s Church in Neoga. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 AM on Friday, December 19, also at the Church, followed by internment at St. Michael’s Cemetery in Shelby County, Illinois.
The Swengel-O’Dell Funeral Home of Neoga, Illinois is assisting the family with arrangements.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.swengel-odell.com.