Elizabeth M. Evans

On Wednesday morning, March 15, 2023, Elizabeth M. Evans, age 96, slipped peacefully from her earthly life into eternal life and the open arms of the Lord. Undoubtedly, she was led by angels to a reunion with her late husband of more than 60 years, Jerome R. Evans.

Jerry and Bette, as they were known to many, loved living in Pittsburgh, and as a result, Bette became deeply involved with the Arts the city had to offer. Together with Loti Falk, Marie Ganassi and Norman Brown, all dear friends, to name only a few, she worked tirelessly to improve the Pittsburgh Ballet, served on the board and was President of the Pittsburgh Ballet Guild for several years. She was also President of the Civic Light Opera and the National Society of Arts & Letters. Bette was responsible for huge amounts of funds brought into these organizations through many various benefits and events. It is impossible to list here the many successes she championed, but through her unending efforts, the citizens of the City of Pittsburgh had the advantage to enjoy what these associations offered; Bette made it possible for the artistic community and performers to have opportunities and scholarships which they may not otherwise have been beneficiary to. She also volunteered at several local hospitals organizing various events for the benefit of these institutions. Bette was a woman of wit, charm and magnetism and drew so many people into her life, to this day, so many of her friends express their love of Bette and will miss her dearly. She is survived by a sister, many nieces and nephews as well as members of Jerry’s family. Bette is predeceased by her loving husband, Jerry, her parents Andrew and Mary Gaydos of McKeesport, PA, as well as four siblings Mary, Michael, Andrew and Joseph. Bette was a person of deep faith, and fervent prayer and love of God enabled her to keep going through so much of the pain she suffered because of her illness. For her, being a Catholic was one of God’s blessings and a privilege. Funeral Saturday, Mass of Christian Burial, St. Paul cathedral 10a.m. Interment in Calvary Cemetery. Bette had a deep admiration for The Little Sisters of the Poor and the St. Vincent De Paul Society. Therefore, in lieu of flowers, it is certain she would appreciate a donation to either of these deserving organizations. Little Sisters of the Poor, 1028 Benton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 or Saint Vincent De Paul Society, 3048 Pioneer Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15226 or to any associations she was part of. Bette would wish you all of you peace and happiness and ask you to remember her in your prayers as she enjoys the same. Arrangements by John A. Freyvogel Sons, Inc. (freyvogelfuneralhome.com)

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