Elizabeth Brinkley Amis

Betsy died peacefully at her home at Longwood in Oakmont, Pennsylvania. She is survived by her husband, William Bruce Amis, their two daughters, Elizabeth Keen Amis and Winfrey Amis Mandarino, her son-in-law, Scott, and her grandchildren Isa and William. Betsy’s greatest joys in life were Bill and her family. She was their greatest support, their defender and loved them unconditionally. To them, she was Mom or “Baba.” Betsy was born in Plymouth, North Carolina and attending St. Mary’s School followed by The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. After college, she moved to Washington, DC, starting her teaching career at Madeira School in Virginia. That’s where the magic began. Betsy met Bill at a party in Washington. It was very close to love at first sight. They married soon after, beginning their storybook marriage. After a stint in Tokyo for Bill’s work, they moved to Pittsburgh in 1974. Together they became a valuable part of the community. Having joined Calvary Church, Betsy quickly became a member of the Altar Guild and was invaluable at the church bazaar. Her smocked dresses, which her own children were beautifully dressed in, were a major part of the handmade table. President of The Women of Calvary, she implemented many new ideas for outreach. With Bill’s support, she dedicated her many talents to various charitable organizations including The Carnegie Museum of Art Women's Committee. Her favorite activity was working on the annual display of the Christmas trees. She was a long-time member of the Window Box Garden Club. The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh was very near and dear to her heart. Betsy was an avid reader, enjoying her monthly book club. She and Bill, together, enjoyed their bi-weekly bridge games. As the girls grew older, Betsy resumed her teaching, first at Ellis then Saint Edmunds Academy. She will be remembered for her beautiful smile and infectious laugh, her southern accent, which never lessened after so many years in Pittsburgh. Betsy could certainly be silly and elevate the fun, something that will not be forgotten. Betsy and Bill were consummate hosts. When Betsy was serving up her famous southern pulled pork, many friends lobbied for an invitation. She and Bill loved to travel abroad with friends and family. But her favorite place was Nags Head in the summers where friends and family, including cousins, could gather. Betsy was always thinking of others, giving of herself. She was often the first to reach out and welcome newcomers to Pittsburgh. She maintained a spirit of true optimism with an immense love for others. Betsy had the most generous spirit. Betsy was adored by so many and will be dearly missed. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Children's Home of Pittsburgh, 5324 Penn Avenue, 15224. (www.childrenshomepgh.org) The Memorial Service will be private. Arrangements by John A. Freyvogel Sons, Inc. (freyvogelfuneralhome.com)

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