Elizabeth R (Cunningham) Joseph passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on April 21, 2022. Betty, as she was known to all, was born in Pittsburgh, PA to the late John and Gertrude Cunningham. She is predeceased by her husband of 73 years, Howard Joseph who passed in January this year. She is survived by her three daughters, Carol Anderson, Linda Wohleber (Robert) and Nancy Berens (John). She is also survived by 8 grandchildren Taylor Yoes, Tiffany Hymel, Robin Authement, Tracy Mitchell, Kate Miles, Joseph Wohleber, Ken Smoot and Charles Wohleber along with 17 great grandchildren. Betty grew up in Hazelwood, PA across the street from the Pittsburgh J and L Steel Mill. Her parents owned and operated a restaurant, Cunningham’s Cafe, where many of the steel workers took their lunch and dinner breaks. She graduated from St Rosalia High School in 1946 and immediately went to work. In 1949 she married Howard, who was love of her life, and they settled down, first in Dormont, PA, and then in Upper St. Clair, PA, to raise a family of three daughters. She was active in school activities and served as a Girl Scout and Brownie leader as well as in the Upper St Clair Band Boosters and PTA. She worked various jobs as the girls grew older and saved her money so that they could build an in-ground pool in their back yard, something she had always dreamed of. It was enjoyed for many years by family and friends. In 1975 Howard’s job took them to Cincinnati, Ohio. Betty worked there as well and continued to stay active, playing tennis, golf and lounging in the community pool with grandchildren when they visited. Betty was a care giver for her mother and mother-in-law when they suffered strokes and both lived with Betty and Howard at different times. The couple retired to Spring Hill in 1991. They frequented the Elks Club where they were members and enjoyed dinner and dancing and made many friends. She loved Florida living, being near the beach, and never missed the cold weather. Betty continued to be active even after a massive stroke in 1999. A broken hip in 2019 and a COVID infection and isolation from friends and family in 2020 resulted in a rapid decline in her health. Even then, at 93, she always enjoyed shopping and especially loved thrift stores. Every Tuesday was a shopping day for her as the local stores had a senior discount day. She didn’t buy often but the looking always gave her pleasure. She rarely shopped just for herself. She was always looking for things for the rest of the family. Betty committed her life to Jesus Christ at the age of 55, and from that point on, she started every morning by reading her Bible and praying. Her children and grandchildren were always uppermost in her prayers. She attended church regularly, and Howard joined her as a member of the Grace Presbyterian Church in Spring Hill. Betty was loved wherever she went and will be missed by all who knew her.
