Obituary of Elizabeth "Betty" Nepa

Elizabeth "Betty" Nepa, 91, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2024, surrounded by her loving family, who held her hand and shared words of love during her final moments.

Betty was born and raised in Geneva, NY, the daughter of the late Dominick and Angela (Marciano) Maio. While she held a few careers throughout her life, her greatest and most cherished roles were those of wife and mother. She was the embodiment of love, generosity, and selflessness, always putting her family and friends first.

Betty had a special gift for making everyone feel welcome. Her home was a gathering place where the coffee pot was always on, and there was plenty of food to share. Her passion for cooking, particularly her Italian dishes, earned her the reputation as the ultimate chef within her family. Friends and relatives eagerly came to her table, knowing a meal cooked by Betty was something to savor.

She was deeply devoted to her children, grandchildren, siblings, relatives, and friends. Betty had an extraordinary ability to see the good in everyone and made lasting connections wherever she went. After her children grew up, she became the proud owner of The Corner Store in Geneva, where she loved serving her community. Her customers were more than patrons, they were her friends, and she took genuine interest in their lives.

Later, Betty brought her warmth and people skills to a position at JCPenney, where she thrived. She earned several national sales awards and truly enjoyed meeting and getting to know new people every day.

Betty's life was filled with love and adventure. She split her time between her homes in Ithaca, NY, where she spent summers, and Southern California, where she enjoyed the winters. Her two beloved Chihuahuas, Bella and Roxi, were her constant companions and brought her endless joy.

Betty is survived by her son, Woodrow (Beth); her daughters, Nanette (Ralph) and Mena (Jen); her sister, Sharon Maio (Bill); her brother-in-law, Gene Caraccilo; Debbie Nepa, mother of her grandchildren Zachary Nepa, Elyse Nepa, and Eric Nepa; grandson Duncan Callahan; her great-grandchild, Ari Nepa Smith; her nieces, Andrea Caraccilo and Angelica Krohn; her nephew, Chris Shaben; and many extended family members and friends.

In honor of Betty's wishes, no services will be held. To honor her love for animals, donations may be made in her memory to the ASPCA or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, her favorite charity.