Sunday, June 23, 2024
This was a beautiful obituary for a beautiful lady; however, it was incomplete. True, Betty was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, but it must be said that she was ALSO a wonderful, generous, and loving aunt and great-aunt. So generous, in fact, that she shared her birthday with two of her grand-nephews, Scott and Ian! Aunt Betty was the most well-rounded person I know. She was courageous in the face of adversity. She was resolute when challenged. But she could also be playful and impishly impulsive when the situation allowed. I credit her with having the courage to legally change her name as a young lady from her birth name of “Elizabeth” to her preferred nickname, “Betty.” (Spending most of her youth in Elizabeth, New Jersey probably had something to do with that!) Family gatherings at her house were memorable and raucous affairs, with delicious food, plenty of beverages, warm fellowship, and lots and lots of laughter. She was the life of the party at our wedding reception. Those in attendance must remember the “fire engine ride” around the neighborhood! A few years later, my mother hosted a bridal shower for my wife-to-be. At the shower, Deb received many gifts; however, the only one I can remember all these years later is the baby blue “honeymoon negligee” that Deb received from Aunt Betty! She had a Mona Lisa smile as she watched Deb open the package in the presence of our family and friends. I remember that Aunt Betty made the trip to NY State when our first son was born, visiting us in the hospital with gifts and gracing us with her presence. She cared for our children like they were her own grandchildren and she served lovingly as the matriarch of the Yoos clan when the torch was passed to her. So many memories! Rest in peace, Aunt Betty. You were and are loved.
