Elizabeth "Betty" L. Crumm

Elizabeth L. “Betty” Crumm, 83, of Kearney, passed away peacefully January 25, 2026, at St. John’s in Kearney. Memorial services will be 9:30 am, Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Horner Lieske McBride & Kuhl Funeral and Cremation Services followed by burial at Kearney Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the family, to be designated later. The family encourages all who knew and loved Betty to join them in celebrating her life and remembering the joy she brought to the world. Please visit www.hlmkfuneral.com to leave a tribute or message of condolence. Horner Lieske McBride & Kuhl Funeral and Cremation Services in Kearney is in charge of arrangements. Betty was born to Henry and Rose (Loeffelholz) Schmitz on August 7, 1942, in Poole, Nebraska, Betty was a woman of tenacity and joy, whose life was defined by her dedication to her family, her hard work, and her spirited love for life. Betty was a woman of grace and strength, known for her quick wit and infectious laugh. She graduated from Kearney High School in 1961 and embarked on lengthy careers at Kmart and Baldwin Filters. She was an active community member, always willing to lend a helping hand or share a warm smile. Betty married Jerry Crumm in Kearney on May 14, 1976. Betty had a passion for playing darts and pitch, and she never missed a chance to cheer on the Huskers football team. Her laughter filled every room, and her kindness touched every heart. Betty was the kind of woman who made everyone feel at home, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her. In her honor, the family asks that you take a moment to play a game of darts or pitch, cheer on the Huskers, or simply share a kind word with someone in need. In this way, Betty's spirit of love and kindness will continue to touch the lives of others. Elizabeth “Betty” Crumm, a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, will be forever remembered for her strength, her laughter, and her unwavering love. She was a beacon of light in the lives of many, and her memory will forever be cherished. She is survived by her husband, Jerry Crumm of Kearney; son, Roger and his life partners John & Adam of Kearney; daughter, Rhonda (John) Pike of Kentucky; granddaughter, Amanda (Thomas) Brown of Kearney; and great-granddaughters, Aubrey, Oaklyn, Monroe, and Eloise Brown of Kearney; sisters: Rosella Whitcher of Colorado, Rita (Duryea) Desmarteau of Colorado, Pat Journey, Shirley Crumm, Sue Crumm all of Kearney, Kathy (Don) McBride North Platte, NE; Brothers: Duane (Dee) Schmitz of Colorado, Dale (Joyce) Schmitz of Colorado, and Jerry Schmitz of Kearney. As well as many extended family members and friends. Betty's family was her greatest joy, and she leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to live in their hearts. She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Rose Schmitz; son, Darin Crumm; sister, Irene Carr; and great-granddaughter, Stella Brown.

Tributes

Elizabeth "Betty" L. Crumm

August 7, 1942 - January 25, 2026