Betty Jean Kift

Betty Jean Kift, 91, of Williamsport, passed away on Monday, November 14, 2016 at the Williamsport Hospital.

She was born on September 19, 1925, a daughter of the late Fred A. and Lillian G. (McBride) Taylor.  Betty Jean and her husband, Dr. Philip Sayre Kift, Sr., celebrated nearly 67 years of marriage before his death May 19, 2016.

Betty Jean was a 1943 graduate of Muncy High School.  She spent the early years of her marriage raising and caring for her family. Later she joined her husband’s dental practice on Broad Street, Montoursville as the office manager. Betty Jean was a wonderful, hard-working partner.

She was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church, Montoursville, where she had previously been active with Women of Bethany.

Betty Jean was an avid gardener and shared her enthusiasm with others as a member of the Montoursville Garden Club.  She loved handcrafts including knitting and crocheting.  Betty was an excellent cook and baker, especially known for her canned peaches, frozen corn and homemade pies.  She had a soft spot in her heart for animals, and adored her cats, Corky and Sabrina.

The pride and joy of Betty Jean’s life revolved around her family.  From the many memories made at the cabin along the Loyalsock Creek to the Penn State football games and wrestling matches attended, she cherished every moment spent with her husband and family.  Betty Jean delightfully joined in with any backyard volleyball or football game, board game or any activity taking place.  She was selfless in caring for her husband, children and grandchildren who all deeply loved her.

Surviving are a son, Philip S. Kift Jr. (Bonnie) Ligonier, PA; four daughters: Dr. Sharon K. Hayes (Dr. John) Williamsport, PA, Joan K. Sloyer (John) Julian, PA, Debra K. Taylor (Tom) Williamsport, PA and Donna K. Schuman (Mark) Doylestown , PA.  Betty was the proud grandmother of seven grandchildren: Lindsay and Benjamin Kift; Michael Hayes; Thomas and Patricia Taylor; Morgan and Lauren Schuman.  Also surviving is her grand-dog, Riley.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by two brothers, Charles and Bobby Taylor; and one sister, Carol Kleckner.

Friends will be received from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Friday at Grenoble’s, 121 S. Main St., Muncy, where the funeral will be held at 12:30 p.m. with Pastor David Letscher, of Bethany Lutheran Church, Montoursville, officiating.

Burial will follow in Muncy Cemetery.