Elizabeth Rugh

Elizabeth Rugh, affectionately known as Betsy, passed away peacefully on June26, 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA. Born in 1965 to Carolyn and John (Jack) Rugh in Pittsburgh, Betsy is survived by her parents, her brother and sister-in-law John and Gale Rugh, her nieces Haley and Hanna Rugh, her best friend Roberta Orton, her Aunt Margie Peterson, many cousins around the country, all of whom share fond memories of their happy times at the family cottage at Slippery Rock, and her many friends at Grande. She was predeceased by her long-term partner Bill Sholl. A 1983 Peters Township High School Graduate, Betsy’s passion was in caring for others. She realized her dream of becoming a nurse in 2009, when she graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from California University of Pennsylvania. She spent her nursing career at the ICU in the McGee Women’s Hospital, Canonsburg Hospital, and nursing homes in the Canonsburg area. True to her Pittsburgh heritage, Betsy was a lifetime Penguins and Steelers fan and could twist a terrible towel with the best of them. Her compassionate nature extended to all animals, big and small. Betsy was a cat champion, never hesitating to help a cat in need. She also loved to visit her best friend Roberta in North Carolina, where they spent countless hours laughing and chatting on the beaches. Her sense of humor was legendary, and Betsy loved to regale others with her stories. Just when you thought you couldn’t laugh any harder, she would say something even funnier. Betsy kept her sense of humor until the very end. Betsy’s family would like to thank the staff at UPMC Presby, who gave her excellent care. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bailey’s Cat Haven in her name. The next time you see an animal, please think of Betsy and treat them with kindness, giving them extra care and love. A memorial service will be held later.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted onto the care of Salandra Funeral and Cremation Services, Inc. Joseph P. Salandra LFD owner/supervisor 304 West Pike Street Canonsburg (724) 745-8120. To view or extend your condolences please visit www.salandrafunerals.com.