Elizabeth Marie Perry

Elizabeth Marie Perry, known fondly as Betty, was born on May 28, 1939, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Herman J. Meisberger and Marie A. Meisberger. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Saturday October 12, 2024.

Betty's journey through life was characterized by a deep love for her family and a vibrant spirit that touched the hearts of all who knew her. She graduated from Saint John's Academy Catholic School in 1957, laying the foundation for a life dedicated to her loved ones. An incredibly Loving and caring mother and grandmother, she embodied warmth and humor, welcoming everyone into her home with open arms and a smile.

Throughout her career, Betty worked as a clerk for Ferrel Algas Electrical Supply and Amax Coal, later becoming a shipping manager for Bio Med. However, it was her role as a homemaker that truly brought her joy. Her hobbies were as diverse as her interests; she had a passion for gardening—growing both vegetables and beautiful flowers—and a love for animals, often providing food for the many feathered and furry guests that graced her yard. Her talents extended to crafts, puzzles, and crosswords, activities that she cherished during quiet moments at home.

Betty had a unique talent for reminiscing, often sharing memories with her family while perusing her cherished photo albums. These moments created a legacy of love and connection that will forever resonate in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

She was married to the love of her life, Theodore F. McElyea on December 31, 1960. A love story sparked by a connection through her sister. Their union was filled with love that continued until their separation. Betty later married JC Perry on August 30, 1991, and they were together until his passing in August 2005.

Betty's family includes her sons, Kevin M. McElyea (Amelia), Daniel P. McElyea (Sherri), and Sean P. McElyea (Kathy), and daughter Debbie Purvis (Michael), alongside numerous grandchildren: Tabatha Mitchell (Mike), Michael McElyea (Samantha), Benjamin Showalter (Candyce), Kyle McElyea (Courtney), Andrew McElyea (Haley), Scott McElyea (Meagan), Megan McElyea (Jarrett) and Nathan Hunt (Linda), all of whom will carry on her legacy. Among her great-grandchildren are Olivia, Austin, Blake, Brayden, and Isabella. She also leaves behind several nieces and nephews who will remember her fondly.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents Herman and Marie Meisberger (Bratton), her beloved husband Theodore, her second husband JC Perry, her son John W. McElyea, her granddaughter Michelle McElyea, and siblings Patrick Meisberger and Delores Otto.

As we gather to celebrate her life, we invite family and friends to join us for visitation at IFC Greenwood on October 18, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and on October 19, 2024, at St. Jude Catholic Church from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, followed by the Mass at 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM.

Betty's spirit will live on in the hearts of her loved ones, a testament to a life well-lived, filled with warmth, laughter, and an unwavering dedication to those she held dear. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten. 

In leu of flowers, donations can be made to Southside Animal Shelter of Indianapolis.