Elizabeth “Betty” Haling, age 97, of Hayward, Wisconsin passed away on Friday, November 17, 2023 at Water’s Edge Care Center in Hayward.

Elizabeth Augusta Jones was born on September 10, 1926 in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of John and Lilllian (Hattendorf) Jones. She was raised in Dubuque, Iowa where she attended grade school and graduated from Dubuque High School. She continued her education at the University of Dubuque, where she played percussion instruments in the orchestra, was a member of the National Honor Society and earned her bachelor’s degree.

Betty married Richard Barnes, Jr. in 1947 and they had three children, Richard III, Cynthia, and Steven.

Betty began her teaching career in Hinsdale, Illinois and continued it in Clarendon Hills, Illinois, in the field of special education. While teaching, she completed her master’s degree. She also wrote a book on early childhood development: “It’s the Stage, Not the Age.”

She loved to spend her summers at her family’s cabin on Moose Lake, outside of Hayward. While there, she met Russell Haling, and they were married in 1977.

She was active in the Hayward community, as a member of the Hayward Lioness organization where she held office, won fundraising awards and traveled to Mexico with Russ to distribute eyeglasses to those in need. She also was a member of the Hayward chapter of the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.), focused on celebrating and supporting the advancement of women. She was an avid volunteer for the American Birkebeiner. Betty supported Russ when he ran for the Wisconsin State Senate.

In retirement, she and Russ spent winters in Sierra Vista, Arizona. She travelled with her children through Europe, Australia, and enjoyed a Rhine River cruise with Russ. She took up golfing at age 62 and was particularly proud of her two holes-in-one.

She always loved the outdoors, growing mushrooms, sketching, painting, puzzles, and games which brought out her competitive spirit. In addition, she was an accomplished poet, publishing a book of her own poems entitled “A Look at Life.” Her greatest love was her extended family, and she particularly loved introducing succeeding generations to the cabin on Moose Lake.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her first husband, and two brothers, John and Bob Jones.

She is survived by her husband of 46 years, Russell; three children, Richard Alan III (Claire) Barnes of San Diego, California, Cynthia (Dennis) Huey of Elburn, Illinois, and Steve (Ann Berlage) Barnes of Hayward, Wisconsin; three grandchildren, Megan Barnes, Brian Barnes, and Natalie Barnes; two step-grandchildren, Jennifer Rosenberg and Brian Huey; and three step-great-grandchildren, Jack Rosenberg, Olivia Rosenberg, and Grant Huey; and many nieces and nephews.

The world is better off because she blessed it, and all with whom she came in contact. A private gathering celebrating Betty’s life will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be directed to the P.E.O. of Hayward at 14148 W. Peninsula Road, Hayward, Wisconsin 54843 or to the Spider Lake Church at 12104 N. Lower Twin Lake Road, Hayward, Wisconsin, 54843.

Last Update: Nov 27, 2023 11:17 am CST