Betty Jean McNeely

Betty Jean McNeely, five days short of her 100^thbirthday, passed away in Southmont Presbyterian Senior Care on December 24^th, 2023.  She was born in Sharon, PA, on December 29^th, 1923, daughter of Evelyn (Eva) Mae Gantz and stepfather Frank Gantz. Betty lived in New Orleans and Indianapolis but spent most of her life in Washington, PA. Betty worked in retail in several stores including Charles Gessner dress shop and Langs in Washington from where she retired. Many of her regular customers depended on her great fashion advice; Betty told stories of choosing gifts for the wives of many of the attorneys in the courthouse that was just across the street. Because of her impeccable fashion sense, if Betty gave you a compliment you could be assured that you looked your best. She was a true fashionista and a beautiful woman inside and out.

Betty lived through numerous memorable events in the past 100 years. She was born in 1923, during a time when the world was still recovering from World War I. She witnessed the Great Depression, World War II (when Betty worked at the glass factory in Washington,) the invention of the television (everyone knew not to call during Jeopardy) and the rise of the internet (which she never embraced!)  Betty was both strong and kind and attributed her long life to the mantra “everything in moderation.”

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Harry (Doc) who died in 1981, sisters, Laura and Sarah, brothers Jack and Russell and granddaughter Lindsey McNeely.

Betty is survived by daughter Winkie O’Brien (Larry) and sons Ernie (Sherry,) Frank (Karen,) and Mark, grandchildren Ryan McNeely (Austin,) and Erin Stevens (Brett.) Betty Leaves 4 great grandchildren, Monroe McNeely, Dylan and Wyatt Stevens and Evelyn McNeely.

The family would like to thank the staff of Amedisys Hospice and Southmont Senior Care for the care and kindness they showed to Betty. They treated her like family, and we are forever grateful.

Betty wanted a celebration of her life rather than for anyone to dwell on the sadness of her passing. The family will pay tribute to Betty privately toasting her long and amazing life.

All arrangements are provided by Pittsburgh Cremation and Funeral Care.