Bette J. Spensley

Bette Jean Spensley, 71, of Geneseo, passed away from complications of Parkinson’s and a brief illness, on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at Woodridge Supportive Living – Geneseo.  A memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, March 31, 2025, at Vandemore Funeral Homes & Crematory – Geneseo Chapel.  Reverend Terry Lancaster will officiate.  A memorial visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., before the memorial service.  Memorials may be directed to the Parkinson’s Foundation, 5757 Waterford District Drive, Suite 310, Miami, FL, 33126 or at www.parkinson.org. 

Bette was born May 2, 1953, the daughter of Louis and Louise (Hoyer) Reitz, in Hazel Green, WI.  Bette lived a life filled with love, community involvement, and cherished friendships.  She graduated from Galena High School in 1971 and soon after, on July 10, 1971, married the love of her life, Curtis Spensley, in Galena, Illinois. Together, they built a life centered around family and their community. Bette was a dedicated co-owner of Spensley Insurance Agency, where her hard work and friendly demeanor were appreciated by all who knew her. Beyond her professional life, she served as a crossing guard for many years. She enjoyed card games, bowling, and especially cherished watching her grandchildren participate in their various activities. She was a member of the Geneseo Country View Women’s League and a devoted member of a bi-weekly card club, where she built lasting friendships.

Those left to cherish her memory include her loving husband Curtis Spensley of Geneseo; children, Kari Rink of Geneseo, Christopher (Kristin) Spensley of Eldridge, IA, and Joshua (Becky) Spensley of Geneseo, IL; grandchildren, Kaden Rink, Tannen Rink, Jeslen Rink, Carter Spensley, Ethan Spensley, Brandton Spensley, and Drew Spensley; and sisters, Kay Temperly of Galena, IL, and Lynn (Lee) Foecking of Florida.

Bette was preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Louise Reitz; brother, John Reitz; and sister, Shirley Einsweiler.