Elizabeth "Betsy" Soliday

The spunky and free-spirited Elizabeth “Betsy” Soliday has “left the building.” That was the phrase she always used when someone passed, and it feels both fitting and a little funny—just the way she would have wanted.

Betsy grew up in Tinley Park with her parents and brother, John, but made Hazel Crest her home for more than 40 years. She worked at Fort Dearborn for most of her career, where she made many lifelong friends who became like family.

Fierce, funny, and full of color, Betsy was rarely without her sunglasses and lipstick. She had a dazzling collection of rings, purses, and coats, and a long list of cars she enjoyed driving with her trademark need for speed. She had a soft spot for chocolate cake, McDonald’s Diet Coke, and cheese pizza with extra cheese. And always at her side was her beloved fur baby, Tink.

The past six months were difficult, but they didn’t define her. Up until late March, Betsy was fiercely independent, living life on her own terms. A sudden illness led to hospitalization and, eventually, memory care, where it became clear she had likely been living with dementia for some time. True to form, her quirky and eccentric spirit had masked the signs. Even as the disease progressed, her essence never dimmed.

She is survived by her brother John and his wife, her lifelong friend Barbara Schooley, several nieces and nephews, and many close, lifelong friends.

She leaves behind memories that are as bold and joyful as she was. Though she may be gone, her sparkle will forever remain with those who loved her forever.

A celebration of Betsy’s life will be planned for family and close friends.

Arrangements entrusted with Chicagoland Cremation Options of Schiller Park, IL.