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Pharr, TX: Betty Jean McLaughlin, 76, passed away August 15, 2013 at her residence with her daughters at her side due to bile duct cancer.

Betty was born February 26, 1937 in Eglin, IL to William Joseph and Virginia Mae (Shoaff) McKleroy. She attended high school in Mattoon, IL and graduated in 1955. Then attended nurse’s training in Springfield, IL for almost two years. Betty was a homemaker and then was employed by Sheridan Township. Later she went to work for Earl Givan Construction as a secretary and Martin Marietta Quarry. Betty retired from family owned and operated Long Run Gutter Company.

She was a Christian serving as a trustee for the non-denominational church. Church services were held in her park community. Betty was an avid reader and enjoyed various craft projects, cooking and entertaining family and friends.

She is survived by her children: Walter B. Berger of Lincoln, IL, Rebecca A. Parrish (Leon) of Surgoinsville, TN, and Elizabeth L. Berger of Bristol, TN; grandchildren, Erin Kegerris of Chicago, IL, Emily Smith of Johnson City, TN, Emma Kegerris of Hope, MI; son-in-law Jeff Kegerris of Batavia, IL and first husband, Daniel W. Berger. She is also survived by the large extended McLaughlin family of her late husband, two very special people that were Betty's dearest friends for the past 20 years, Tom and Betty Huston of Weir, MS; and all her friends at Paradise Park in Pharr, TX.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Leroy McGrady (11/27/1977); late husband, Lloyd McLaughlin (06/16/ 2001); brother, Stephen Harris of Spokane, WA (04/02/2009); and daughter, Pam R. Kegerris (03/29/2011).

Betty had a very short battle with cancer, 37 days, and her daughters, Rebecca (Becky) and Elizabeth (Beth) were able to care for her during her final days.

You are invited to sign the online guestbook or leave a memory at www.buckashcraft.com.

Arrangements are with Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home.