Obituary of Bette Lain

Bette Lain, age 93, of Sylva, NC (formerly of Gibson City, IL) passed away at home on Sept. 25, 2021 of a heart condition complicated by a fall and small stroke.  She was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Gene Lain, parents Art and Hattie VanBlaracum, brother Bud VanBlaracum (Toots), sisters Bea Ashmore (Sandy), Opal Jordan (Virgil), Nadyne Tongate (Gene), and BFF/niece Lila Parsons. She was the hub of the wheel for the VanBlaracum clan.  She is survived by her daughter Ellen (Amy McKenzie).  Amy and Ellen loved their mom and several generations loved their Aunt Bette. She was a woman in the workforce way ahead of her time, serving as Executive Director of Ford County Housing in the 70’s and later as a City Council alderman.  She was a top-notch bookkeeper, a member of the First Christian Church, and enjoyed country music, craftwork, thrift shopping with her daughter, and spoiling her granddog, Henna. Her quick wit, sense of humor, and kindness left a lasting impression and she will be sorely missed.  Per her wishes, no service is planned and her ashes will join her husband’s.  A memorial will be held at a later date.  Memorials may be made to Gibson City Telecare (217) 784-4891 or Jackson County Department on Aging (828) 586-5494.