Betty Pries, 73, passed away on July 2, 2026 at WinnPrairie in Freeport. She was born on December 11, 1952 in Freeport, IL to Virgil and Cheryl (Mammoser) Brinkmeier.

Betty worked in the insurance industry at General Casualty Insurance throughout her career. She had a lifelong love of volleyball and remained deeply involved in the sport, competing nationally at the Master's Level.

Betty embraced life with enthusiasm and found great joy in staying active, especially outdoors. Her travels took her from hiking in Yosemite National Park, to whale watching in Maine, and sightseeing in Ireland and Norway. She enjoyed canoeing in the Boundary Waters and on the Green River in Utah. Betty climbed the 14er Mount Quandary in Colorado. She loved gardening, windsurfing, hiking, biking, golfing, playing volleyball, pickleball, and bocce ball. Above all, she treasured the time with her family and friends. She was devoted to her nephews, nieces, great-nephews, and great-niece. Whether she was preparing a delicious meal in the kitchen or happily playing with the kids on the playground at their grandma's, Betty's love for her family and friends was evident in everything she did. Her radiant smile, energy, and positive spirit brightened every room and left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her. The family greatly appreciates the loving care and support from WinnPrairie and St. Croix Hospice.

Betty is survived by her sister Linda Korte of Lena; brother Dan (LeeAnn) Brinkmeier of Lena; nieces and nephews- Eric (Erin) Korte of Lena, Tiffanie (Justin) Wilks of Winnebago, IL, and Matthew Brinkmeier of Lena; great nieces and nephews- Jaxon and Ella Korte, Austin Simmons; step-uncle Fred Asche and numerous cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother-in-law Richard Korte, nephew Craig Brinkmeier, and many aunts and uncles.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. on Friday July 10, 2026, at the Lena United Methodist Church, 118 W. Mason Street in Lena, IL.

Funeral service to follow, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the Lena United Methodist Church. Officiating will be Pastor Libby Rutherford.

Interment will take place at a later date.

A memorial has been established in her memory.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.leamonfh.com