Elizabeth Gissendanner, 88, of Clairton, affectionately known as Betty, Bet, Liz, and Lizzy, was born August 17, 1934, in Elizabeth, PA. She was the beloved daughter of the late Russell and Frances (Ford) Clarke. 

Betty grew up on Blaine Hill. She graduated from Elizabeth Forward School district where she excelled in math and penmanship. Elizabeth worked as a Floor Supervisor for JC Penney’s for over 30 years. Elizabeth met and was united in marriage to K.T, and from this union, their beautiful daughter, Kamela was birthed.

Known to be quiet, Elizabeth loved to laugh and had an unmatched sense of humor. She was the Queen of sarcastic one-liners.  She enjoyed ceramics and sketching.  One of her hobbies was collecting Capodimonte porcelain and milk glass.

Elizabeth was a lifetime member of First A.M.E. Church and served under many pastors. Her trustworthiness led her to the Steward Board where she served as Secretary and Treasurer.  She served on the Rosa E. Pettis Missionary Society and was elected multiple times as a delegate to the Pittsburgh Annual Conference of the A.M.E. Church.

Not only was she a faithful member to her church, but also in the community. Elizabeth was a 15-year member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary Post 7632, where she served as Chaplain and Patriotic Instructor.

Elizabeth departed this life on October 18, 2022, at UPMC McKeesport. She was preceded in death by her parents, father, Russell M. Clarke, mother, Frances Irene (Ford) Clarke, sisters, Audrey Clarke, Frances Jane Gissendanner, Norma Smith, and Dorothy Bowyer. 

Elizabeth is survived by her loving spouse of 62 years, K.T.; daughter, Kamela Gissendanner (Carlton Robertson) of Clairton; three granddaughters, Kamela Gissendanner (Eric Fusco), Kameron Townes, Kamara Townes; one grandson, Kane Townes (Pamela Bartell); great-granddaughter, Kaelynn Allen; great-grandson, Kameron Fusco; two sisters, Rosalind Dixon, Emily (Elder Melvin) Brown; goddaughter, Phyllis Bowyer, godson, James Long, Jr.; host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.