A life well-lived to the age of 95, Elizabeth (Betty) Genzlinger, nee Garrity, died peacefully on April 17, 2026.  She leaves behind a legacy of family, strong faith, fortitude, and the importance of education.  She attended Mundelein University in Chicago and became a teacher, but soon after marrying dad, Dean, in 1956, she stepped away from the classroom to raise and prioritize her family. She never missed an opportunity to volunteer though; at church, our grammar school, high school, and also her grandchildren's school: teaching empathy, gratitude, and social responsibility by example. In recognition of her tireless volunteering, she was inducted into Taft High School's Hall of Fame.

Betty was a loving mom to Pat (Joe) Lewis, Julie (Ron) Hillier, Kay (George) Johnson, Nora (Chip) McKiernan, Maria (Tony) Comella, Eileen (Eric) Carr, Tom (Michelle) Genzlinger, Martha Genzlinger, and Peter (Jenny) Genzlinger. She was the proud grandmother of 23 and great-grandmother of 10. Betty was a devoted sister to Pat Garrity and a dear aunt to her nieces and nephews. She is also survived by many beloved cousins. Betty will be deeply missed by her entire family and all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 61 years, Dean Genzlinger, brother, John Garrity, and son-in-law, Eric Carr.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, for visitation at 9:00 a.m. followed by a Mass celebrating Betty's life at 10:00 a.m., both held downstairs in the Holy Family Chapel at St. Paul of the Cross Church, 140 S. Northwest Hwy., Park Ridge, IL 60068.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:

Betsy's Blankets https://www.betsysblankets.org/

Journey Care Hospice https://journeycare.org/donate/