Bette Whyte

Bette L. Whyte, 80, died at 2:51 p.m. Thursday, August 2, 2018 at Mercy Hospital in St. Louis, MO. Born January 3, 1938 in Alton, she was the daughter of William Q. and Thelma L. (Utt) Smith. Mrs. Whyte was a homemaker and a member of the Prince Road Church of Christ. On June 22, 1956 in Grafton, IL she married the love of her life, Dennis E. Whyte. He survives. Also surviving are two daughters, Terri Hilgendorf of Godfrey and Traci Abbott (Jim) of Houston; three grandchildren, Michael Hilgendorf, Nicole Abbott-Molinar (Estevan), and Courtney Abbott; two brothers, William Smith of Alexandria, VA, and Robert Smith (Mary) of Grafton; one sister, Beth Duncan (Bill) of Grafton, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister-in-law, Barbara Smith.

Bette was known for her caring disposition, and she made many friends through her work at Breitweiser’s Gift Shop, at Famous-Barr, and most recently in the Admissions Department at Jerseyville Community Hospital. After retirement, she enjoyed volunteering at the Ambulatory Department in the hospital. Bette was an avid reader, and the staff at Hayner Public Library kept up with her requests that most weeks included four to five mystery novels. She was remarkable for her ability to remember the dates of birthdays and anniversaries. But most of all, Bette loved to bake, and many will miss the special dishes she prepared for them. She baked her last batch of chocolate chip cookies on July 19.

Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00 p.m. Monday, August 6, 2018 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton where funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 7, 2018. Bill Cooper will officiate. Burial will be private. Memorials may be made to Hayner Public Library, Jersey Community Hospital Ambulatory Department, or the Prince Road Church of Christ. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com

Obit Provided By:
Gent Funeral Home