Elizabeth (Neff) Cote

Elizabeth Ann “Betsy” (Neff) Cote, 83, Altoona, passed away peacefully at her home Sunday surrounded by her immediate family, after losing her battle with leukemia.

She was born in Altoona, daughter of John Bernard “Jack” Neff and Genevieve Deloris Kuhn. Upon the passing of her mother at age 10, her father married Nora Regina Kirk.

Betsy graduated from London Central High School, Bushy Park, London, England, while her father, who was serving with the Army Corps of Engineers, was stationed there. After graduation, she married Joseph Paul Albert Cote, the love of her life, at St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church in Rushden, England, and honeymooned in Paris, France.

Together for 65 years, they had three children: Paula (Mike) Stiffler of Acworth, Ga., John (Debbie) Cote of Rowlett, Texas, and Edna (John) Huber of Altoona; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

After traveling the world with her career Army dad and career Air Force husband, she returned to Altoona to reside in the home her grandfather built and in which she was born.

Betsy’s pastimes included attending her Tuesday Morning Breakfast Club, Senior’s exercise group, Wednesday Lunch Club and monthly Catholic High luncheons.

Betsy is best known for her knitting skills; a consummate multitasker, she was able to hold a telephone conversation, watch television and knit an intricately patterned sweater.

In addition to her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Betsy is survived by her husband; and a brother, Charles Bernard Neff of Bridgeville, Del.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

A memorial service to celebrate Betsy’s life will be held at a later date due to social distancing restrictions imposed by the corona­virus (COVID-19) pandemic. Arrangements are by Jones Funeral Home, Altoona.

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