Elizabeth "Betty" North

Born on January 6, 1944, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Betty was the daughter of Howard George Stauffer and Mildred Place Stauffer. Throughout her life, she was known for her intelligence, determination, independence, sharp wit, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.

Betty began her professional career in New York City before moving to Columbus, Ohio, where she joined Huntington National Bank. There, she became one of the bank’s earliest female officers, distinguishing herself through her leadership, professionalism, and confidence during a time when few women held such positions.

After becoming a mother, Betty embraced her entrepreneurial spirit and built her own successful real estate business. For more than 30 years, she purchased, renovated, and managed properties in Columbus’s historic Victorian Village neighborhood.

Family and friendship were at the center of Betty’s life. She shared 53 years of marriage with her husband, R. David North, and was a proud and loving mother to Laurie and Dan. She loved her family and friends deeply and was a loyal and trusted confidant. Those fortunate enough to know Betty knew they could count on her honesty, wisdom, and unwavering support.

A founding member of her neighborhood Bunco group, Betty forged lifelong friendships that endured for nearly four decades. Together, these friends shared countless gatherings, and adventures, creating enduring memories that stayed with her.

Betty believed that life’s greatest treasures were experiences rather than possessions. She enjoyed traveling. The Rocky Mountains held a special place in her heart, and she was always happiest when spending time near the water. Wherever her travels took her, Betty sought out the local color, and artistry of the places she visited. She often returned home with a piece of artwork or handcrafted jewelry from a local artisan—not simply as a souvenir, but as a reminder of the places and experiences she encountered along the way.

She marched to the beat of her own drum and possessed a sharp sense of humor. Even during the final months of her life, her caregivers knew that if Betty was joking with them, they had earned a special place in her heart.

Betty was also an avid movie lover who delighted in afternoons spent at the theater, enjoying everything from action-adventure films to the classics. One of her final outings was a trip to downtown Columbus to see Gone With the Wind at the historic Ohio Theatre, an experience she thoroughly enjoyed.

Betty is survived by her husband, R. David North; her children, Lauren E. North and R. Daniel North; her twin brother, Robert Stauffer; her cherished cat, Gracie and “the boys” Milo and Buddy; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Howard George Stauffer and Mildred Place Stauffer, and her stillborn son, David Christopher North.

In recent years, dementia gradually dimmed Betty’s light, but it never took her spirit. Her humor and love for those around her remained unmistakably her own.

Betty taught those around her the value of loyalty, laughter, and living life on one’s own terms. Her legacy lives on in the family and friendships she cherished and the countless memories she created with those she loved.

A Celebration of Life honoring Betty will be held at Schoedinger Northwest, 1740 Zollinger Road, Columbus, Ohio on Friday, September 4th. A Reception will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., with the celebration commencing at 3:00 p.m.

In keeping with Betty’s spirit and independent nature, guests are encouraged to wear bright colors as family and friends gather to celebrate a life well lived.

Betty’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the entire team at Luminary Hospice for the exceptional care, compassion, dignity, and kindness they provided during the final months of her life. Their dedication brought comfort not only to Betty but also to her family. Under their care, Betty continued to find joy, connection, and laughter, and for that her loved ones will be forever grateful.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Luminary Hospice in honor of Betty and in recognition of the extraordinary care they provide to patients and their families.