Betty Gilman Harris

Betty G. Harris, age 88, Scottsdale, died on February 3, 2018. She was born in Omaha, Nebraska, the middle child of Frieda and Isadore Gilman, on May 12, 1929. Frieda emigrated to the United States from Poland in 1920 and Isadore from Russia in 1922. Betty became self-sufficient at an early age, helping her father and siblings while her mother was away for six years recovering from tuberculosis. At nine years of age, she worked behind the candy counter in her father's grocery store and made deliveries. Betty graduated from Central High School in Omaha. She married Lee Allen Harris, the love of her life, on February 12, 1950. She took care of the home front while Lee, a Lieutenant in the 40th Division of the California National Guard, served his country in the Korean war. He was in battle for 17 months before returning home to her in 1952.

Betty was a devoted wife and mother who loved her family. She read thousands of books in her lifetime and emphasized the importance of education to her three children. Her favorite expressions to her family were "put your best foot forward" and "forgive and forget". She had a deep faith in God and was an active member of Temple Solel. Betty enjoyed art, cooking, traveling, gardening, and the family poodles. She worked at United Airlines in Omaha and later at Steadman's Florist in Scottsdale. Her volunteer work included school nurse at River Bend School, Chesterfield, MO. and The American Red Cross. Betty was an elegant and gracious person. She wrote many wonderful letters to family and friends with her unique and lovely style of handwriting. Throughout her life, she was caring and supportive as she touched the lives of those around her. She is remembered for her kindness and uplifting spirit by those who knew her.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Lee; three sons, Michael (Fran), Steven (Terri Lynn), and Bill (Terri Ann); sister, Annie Himmelstien; brother, Marvin Gilman; grand children, Scott and Greg, Jennifer, Elizabeth and Kevin, Jeph and Michelle; and great-grandchild, Mason.

Burial services led by Rabbi John Linder were held at Green Acres Chapel of Light, Scottsdale, on February 11, 2018. Memorial contributions can be made to Temple Solel, 6805 E. McDonald Dr., Paradise Valley, AZ. 85253, Arizona Humane Society, and Phoenix Children's Hospital Foundation.