Betty never forgot roots
A DEARLY-LOVED Arklow woman was laid to rest recently and is mourned by all who knew her.
Elizabeth 'Betty' Brauders née Ruddy (83) first came to Arklow many years ago with her husband Frank. A native of Coalisland, Co. Tyrone, Betty was a true Northern lady and never lost touch with her roots, her family and her distinct accent. Betty and Frank met in Lancaster in England and later returned home to Frank's native county where they settled in Griffith Street, Arklow and reared a large and happy family.
They had 11 children: Gerry, Frankie, Elizabeth, Sadie, Mary, John, Raymond and the late Bernadette, Michael, Liam and Anthony.
Sadly Betty passed away exactly a year to the day after her beloved son Michael was laid to rest. Despite heartbreaking loss and difficult times, Betty clung to her strong faith and always kept the best side out.
She was a rock to all her family and did everything within her power to support and cherish her husband and children. An intelligent and insightful woman, Betty always put her family first and devoted herself to them in the home. The Brauders' house was full of happy times which included Betty's husband Frank whisking her around the kitchen for an impromptu dance. They were the apple of one another eyes and in love to the end. Frank passed away in 1997 and was followed ten days later by son Liam. Betty and Frank shared a deep faith and even enjoyed a trip to The Holy Land.
Any worries Betty has were kept to herself. She had a serious health scare nine years ago where doctors described her recovery as miraculous. Of course, her family were overjoyed that their mother remained with them for almost another decade and was fit and able to return to her life in Arklow.
Betty very much enjoyed reading and getting out for a walk. She was known as a great communicator and her beautiful handwriting was the envy of many. Her distinct Tyrone accent never diminished over the years and even influenced her pet parrot who greeted guests with the same lilt. She was known for her youthful appearance and even at the age of 83 looked much younger than her years. Betty passed away following a short illness on January 3 at St. Vincent's Hospital. She was laid to rest at St. Gabriel's Cemetery, Arklow. Betty is sadly missed by her children Gerry, Frankie, Elizabeth, Sadie, Mary, John and Raymond and spouses, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, siblings Jim, Gertie, Amelia, and Phyllis, extended family and friends.
May she rest in peace.
