Elizabeth "Betty" Jean Belli

SARASOTA – Elizabeth “Betty” Jean (Ludwig) Belli, age 79, passed away peacefully on October 2, 2022, after a long, courageous battle with cancer. Her beloved husband of 58 wonderful years, Dr. Leonard Belli, was by her side along with her three children.

Betty was born on June 30, 1943, in Norwalk, Connecticut, to her loving parents, Loren and Christine (MacKinnon) Ludwig; she was the youngest of four children. Betty grew up in New Canaan, Connecticut and attended New Canaan High School. During her high school years, she was one of a few females to earn a letter sweater, one of the highest athletic accomplishments. Betty furthered her education at Temple University School of Oral Hygiene, where she completed her degree in Dental Hygiene.

Betty married Leonard Belli and resided in Massachusetts, where their three children were born. Soon after their son was born, the family moved to Sarasota, Florida. Betty continued her Dental Hygiene career with her husband’s dental practice and took time off to raise her family.

Along with raising her family in Sarasota, Florida, Betty volunteered her time at her children’s schools and as an active member of the Junior League of Sarasota. Betty was also a member of the Manatee/Sarasota Dental Hygienist Association and the Dental Wives Association.

Betty was an avid tennis player and could be found on the tennis court enjoying a tennis match. She looked forward to the competition and socializing with life-long friends.

Betty was happiest when with family. She cherished the time spent with her children and grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her parents, Loren and Christine (MacKinnon) Ludwig, her brother, Loren Ludwig, and sister, Helen Higgins. She leaves behind her beloved husband, Dr. Leonard Belli, a brother, Peter Ludwig, and her loving children, Kimberly Belli, Sandra Schenck (Kevin), Leonard Belli (Karen). She was a cherished “Grandma Belli” to Alan and Sarah Belli, and Zachary and Nicolas Schenck. She was a loving Aunt to nieces and nephews.

A Gathering for Betty will be held Wednesday, October 19, 2022 at 11:00 AM at Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home at Palms Memorial Park, 170 Honore Ave, Sarasota, FL 34232. Followed by a Memorial Service at 12:00 PM. Committal service will occur Wednesday, October 19, 2022 at 2:00 PM at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Rd 72, Sarasota, FL 34241.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Elizabeth Belli’s name to the Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation. https://fcsf.org Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation 5985 Silver Falls Run, Suite 210, Bradenton, FL 34211

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.palmsrobartsfuneralhome.com for the Belli family.