Bettie L. Clarke, 79, of Decatur departed this life on Sunday, January 1, 2017 at Presence Covenant Medical Center, Urbana. Bettie was born on April 12, 1937 in Brownsville, TN the daughter of James Patterson and Elizabeth Jones. She previously worked at the Marriott Hotel in Memphis, TN. In her spare time, she enjoyed completing crossword puzzles. She later moved to Decatur, Illinois where she resided until the Lord called her home. Bettie leaves to cherish her loving memories: her sons, Richard Allen Clarke of Decatur, IL and James Edward Clarke of Memphis, TN/ Oakland, IL; sisters; Lorell Patterson and Beatrice Jones: brothers; Ben (Margaret) Patterson and Bruce E. Patterson 6 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, special friend, Claudine Robinson and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Bettie was preceded in death by her parents: daughter; Mary Elizabeth: brothers; Billy Patterson and Roy Lee Patterson: sisters; Barbara Walker and Bertha Huddleston. Services celebrating the life of Bettie L. Clarke will be held on January 6, 2017 at noon with visitation one-hour prior, located at Walker Funeral Service & Chapel 566 N. Water Decatur, IL 62523