Elizabeth "Betty" Ann Pappas

Elizabeth “Betty” Ann Pappas, 71, of Upper Arlington Ohio passed away on Thursday, September 29th, surrounded by her loving husband and family. Born Elizabeth Ann Carson on October 28th 1939 in Dennison Ohio, she was the daughter of Howard and Nellie Carson and was preceded in death by both parents and siblings Mary and Nelson. Betty met James Pappas at the Green Bean Festival on the west side of Columbus and they soon became a match made in heaven. Married June 7th 1958, they soon moved to Upper Arlington Ohio, where they still reside. Betty enjoyed many activities and was a leader in the Republican Party and its original “grass root” efforts as she ran the campaign headquarters for President Richard Nixon in Upper Arlington. She held office over many years as a State Committee Woman, Ward Committee Person and State Selection Committee Member and attended the Republican National Convention several times as a State Delegate. On fall weekends, you could see her and her children and eventually grandchildren passing out political literature. The Columbus Zoo was also a passion of hers. She served several terms as a Board Member and watched as the zoo grew not only in size, but also in fame and acclaim. Upper Arlington enjoyed her expertise as she became Girl’s Softball Commissioner. Under her leadership in the 1970’s the program grew from 63 girls ages 8-10 to over 500 girls ages 8-18. Her employment history reads like a “who’s who” of Columbus. Her volunteerism in the Republican Party led to her accepting a position with Governor James A. Rhodes, where she served as his Executive Assistant for his many terms. She served the State of Ohio and Governor Rhodes with never ending pride and enthusiasm. Following the final term of Governor Rhodes, Betty became the Executive Assistant to the late John W. Wolfe with the Columbus Dispatch which she thoroughly enjoyed. It was known throughout the city, that you didn’t see John W. without going through Betty first. Betty’s true love was singing and making people smile with her powerful Country voice. She performed throughout the United States under the stage name “Bubbles Carson” and was fortunate to perform with the likes of Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, Eddie Rabbit, and Jim Ed Brown to name a few. Betty is survived by her loving spouse of 53 years, James as well as her children; Marc (Renette) of Tampa, Florida; Vicki (Keith)of New Rochelle, NY and Col. Michael (Rachel) Pappas of Woodbridge, VA. Grandchildren: Danielle, Troy and Alexis Pappas; Michael, Jonathan and James Workman; and Katie, Nick and Joe Pappas. Sister: Janet (Mickey) Barnes of La Mesa, CA and several nieces and nephews. Donations can be made to the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society or the American Diabetes Association. Viewings will be Monday October 3rd from 2-4pm and 6-8pm at Schoedinger Funeral Northwest Chapel. 1740 Zollinger Rd. Columbus, Ohio 43221. Visit www.schoedinger.com to send online condolences to the family.