Elizabeth Van Laanen

Elizabeth “Betsy” Brooks Van Laanen was born in Frankfort, Kentucky on July 25, 1936 to Elizabeth G. and Dibrell C. Brooks.

After marrying Jack Roberts, also of Frankfurt, Kentucky, the young family traveled around the country before settling on home in Oklahoma City. Together they had three children, Susan Nicewander, John Roberts, and Charles Roberts.

Later in her life, she met and married Robert Van Laanen and eventually moved to Atlanta Georgia. This union brought her three wonderful stepdaughters, Dara Van Laanen, Erin Van Laanen, and Kerry Malaga. Betsy and Bob had a rich and full life together and were main stays at the Ronald McDonald House, serving and volunteering in various capacities.

Nothing was more important to her than her personal relationship with Jesus Christ her savior. It was also paramount for her to help others to find their personal relationship with him as well. Her Church friends became like family to her and were a great sense of joy.

Truly, laughter and prayer got her through every day of her life. Although her faith was challenged many times, she always believed in God’s unending love and blessings. Her eloquent advice was always followed with a laugh and a prayer. “The Hat Lady”, “Grandma Betsy”, Mom or whatever she was to you, you felt blessed and honored to have her in your life.

She is survived by her children Susan Nicewander and Cindy Edglin, Charles and Wendy Roberts as well as grandchildren Rex Nicewander, Regan Nicewander, Lake Roberts, Marin Roberts, Charlie Roberts, great grandchildren Naomi Nicewander and Liam Nicewander and a whole slew of others she considered her own.

Services will be held at McDonald and Son Funeral Home in Cumming, Georgia on September 20,2025. Visitation will occur from 12:00 - 1:00pm. with the service to immediately follow.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you donate to the Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities at armhc.org.