Bernadine "Betsy" C. Zulalian, 93 of Urbana, formerly of Brockport, NY died at 5:22 a.m., November 15, 2017 in Urbana. Services will be held at a later time with burial at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Urbana. A memorial mass will be said at St. Patrick's Catholic Church on a future date.

Mrs. Zulalian was born September 18, 1924 in Waukegan, the daughter of Tom and Josie (Zannetine-Guzzo) Merlo. She married Ara "Zu" Zulalian on August 18, 1954 in Urbana and he preceded her in death. She is survived by several nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, great great nieces and nephews and one great great great nephew. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband , sisters, Jacqueline "Dolly" Miller and Margaret Hartrick, and brother Frank Merlo.

Mrs. Zulalian graduated from Urbana High School and the University of Illinois. She was a school teacher at Brockport, NY Public Schools. Betsy loved her career as a second grade teacher. She spoke often of how much she enjoyed watching her class progress and what wonderful students she had. Betsy provided a uniquely insightful encouragement to her students and touched many lives, beyond measure. She and her husband loved to travel and would come to Urbana to enjoy holidays and summers with her family. She enjoyed spending time with her family, particularly the children who brought a loving smile and brightness to her day. She was loved by all, a sweet, kind and loving daughter, sister, wife and aunt.