Oct. 23, 1920 - July 21, 1998

SOUTH BEND - Bettie M. Zillman, 77, died after a long illness at 12:15 p.m. Tuesday afternoon in the home of her daughter, Judy Jansen, at 4436 Huron Circle, South Bend, Ind., where she resided for nearly 23 years.

Bettie was born on Oct. 23, 1920, in Mishawaka, Ind., and had lived in the Michiana area all her life. During the early years of Bettie's life she was a beautician and owned a beauty shop with her mother in downtown Mishawaka next to the Tivoli Theater.

On Nov. 18, 1945, she married Carl Zillman, who preceded her in death. After marrying Carl in 1945, Bettie became a full-time devoted and loving mother to four wonderful children whom she loved unconditionally until the Lord called her home.

Bettie was loved dearly by her family and friends, but even so by those who had never met her, for she always had such a sweet, soft-spoken voice, was willing to lend a hand or a listening ear whenever someone would call or stop by. But most of all, Bettie had a ''heart of gold'' for she was always giving of herself in any way that she was able.

Being unable to walk and confined to her bed for the last 12 years of her life, Bettie found enjoyment in watching QVC and the Rosie Show. She also collected angels and dolls. But most of all she enjoyed being around her family and watching each one of her children and grandchildren grow and achieve dreams throughout the years.

She is survived by two daughters, Judy Jansen and Cheryl Zillman, both of South Bend; a son, Phillip Zillman of Mishawaka; a sister, Lillian Kauffman of Michigan; and a brother, George Gaut of Florida. She is also survived by seven grandchildren, Denise and Jodey Jansen of South Bend, Casey, Mathew and Kelly Zillman of Mishawaka, and Bettie and April Zillman of Elkhart; and by five great-grandchildren of Elkhart. She was also preceded in death by her parents; her son, Paul Zillman; and by a grandson, Timothy Stark.

Her funeral is planned for 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 24th, at the St. Joseph Funeral Home, 824 S. Mayflower Road. Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 and 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. today at the St. Joseph Funeral Home, corner of Sample and Mayflower. Burial will follow in Riverview Cemetery.

The family has requested that memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 2140 Grape Road, Mishawaka, IN 46545.