Betty L. Brown

Betty L. Brown was born in Grove City, Pennsylvania, on September 27th, 1925, and she peacefully passed away at her home in Mount Lebanon, Pennsylvania, on October 29th, 2025, at the remarkable age of 100.

Betty was predeceased by her loving parents, J. Stanley Schultz, Sr. and Edith B. (Sloan) Schultz.  She is survived by her daughter, Amy L. Brown, her son, David J. Brown (Cyndi) and her grandson, Taylor J. Brown.

She is also survived by her only sibling, her much-loved brother, John S. “Jack” Schultz, Jr., and her sister-in-law, Kaye; and her loving nephews and nieces: Tom (Roann), Jeff, Linda (Dave), Laura (Hans), and Paula (Sam).  Betty adored her many  great and great-great nephews and nieces.  She cherished her many special relationships with friends old and young, and she especially enjoyed serving as ‘Adopted Grandma.’

Betty humbly began life happily living in the country, and she attended a one-room schoolhouse.  Always the good student, she actually skipped a grade.  She thrived at Grove City High School and then achieved her goal to proudly attend Grove City College.  After graduation in 1946, she enjoyed her career as a high school English teacher … and she forever remained the family grammarian.   She also felt that a return to simple respect for each other – along with the resumption of teaching Cursive Writing Skills – could go far in solving some of our society’s current challenges!

Betty’s faith in God was very important to her, and she personally lived that faith every day. She was a lifelong Methodist and was always actively involved in her church – from Sunday School, to United Women in Faith, to missions and community outreach.   She married Ralph D. “Dutch” Brown in 1958 and naturally settled into life as a homemaker as they raised their two children in Mount Lebanon.  Living in Pittsburgh’s South Hills in the same home for over 65 years, she was also very involved with her neighbors, in civic events, and with community concerns.

Betty was soft spoken but strong, very present, amiable, and funny.  Her kind, gentle and gracious manner touched everyone she met –  of all different ages.   She was genuine: a good listener who cared deeply for others, and she was always ready with outstretched arms and a warm hug … and, of course, her beautiful smile.   

Betty truly lived, laughed and loved life to the fullest all of her amazing 100 years.  Always the caring teacher, she taught us how to be better people – leading us not only with her kind, gentle ways, but also with her strong character.

Betty simply loved spending time with people, sharing life experiences, laughter and good conversation.  Her favorite place was home – where her heart was, but she also thoroughly enjoyed traveling, especially to North Myrtle Beach in retirement to spend “snowbird” winters for many years with wonderful friends and family there.  Throughout life she enjoyed travel to many U. S. National Parks, especially Yellowstone and Grand Teton in Wyoming.   Other favorite destinations were seasonal trips to New York City and to Walt Disney World in Florida.  All this travel done by car, there were always many fun stops and interesting adventures along the way.

In addition to her deep passion for family and friends, Betty loved birds (especially cardinals), reading, gardens & flowers, fireworks, the theater, ocean views, crossword puzzles, Sudoku, sunsets, all of nature, and lifelong learning.  Betty had a “joie de vivre” (yes, she occasionally taught French too!).  And she had the gift of spontaneity; throughout her life, she was always willing to do just about anything at any time! 

Betty appreciated all life had to offer.  That may have been key to her longevity and a life so well lived, as she was a shining example of the Greatest Generation.  Her gentle spirit and ever-present smile will be deeply missed by all who knew her … or even just crossed her path.

As per Betty’s wishes, burial at Mount Lebanon Cemetery is private.

On Saturday, November 15th, at 2:00 PM, family and friends will  gather to celebrate Betty's life in Sanner Chapel of Mt. Lebanon United Methodist Church; 3319 W Liberty Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15216.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions suggested to the National Park Foundation at https://give.nationalparks.org/site/Donation or Mt. Lebanon United Methodist Church at https://onrealm.org/MtLebanonUnited/-/form/give/now

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