Elizabeth B. Mcdonough

Elizabeth (Betty) Bell McDonough, 89, passed away peacefully Saturday, April 8, 2023, due to natural causes surrounded by family.

Sometimes referred to as "Big Bad Betty Bell", she was born on May 4, 1933, in Camden, NJ to the late Art and Kitty Bell.

After growing up on a farm in South Jersey, Betty married the love of her life, Frank, on June 21, 1956. Being the true pioneers that they were they packed up their three kids, headed 5 hours south, and built a house on Windemere Drive where they lived for 57 years.

As we all know behind every successful man is a strong woman. Sure enough, 10 years after they relocated to Staunton, they started McDonough Toyota. Family-owned and operated since 1975.
Betty's passion were her family and friends. Family was the priority, raising three children, attending and entertaining family events at every opportunity. She carved out special one-on-one times with each of her seven grandchildren, known to them as “Gan” or “Nan”, one on one, having fun, living, and sharing the values of family. One cannot mention family without including pets, she had a special place for her 4- legged children. She cared deeply for all pets, having worked or volunteered with the SPCA her entire adult life.

Her friends were also so special, whether traveling, parties, camping, gatherings, playing bridge, golf, or tennis, she so enjoyed and prioritized their time together. Birthday surprises, warm sincere times together, and practical jokes were the norms. She once arranged a surprise party, and all the guests were invited to meet at Terry Court and get in the back of a U-Haul with 2 hooded drivers and no clue as to where they were going. Only to find out they were dropped at Betty's after doing a lap around the park. Or the annual Thanksgiving party with 12 of her dearest friends and family – all leaving with a handmade Christmas decoration year after year.

Betty is survived by Frank, her husband of nearly 67 years; their three children and spouses, daughter Lynne Smiley and her husband, Butch, son Steve McDonough and his wife, Martha, and son Rich McDonough and his wife, Debbie; seven grandchildren, Megan, Ryan, Tyler, Travis, Blair, Michael, and Lauren; six and a half great-grandchildren; and some very special nephews and nieces.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her two sisters, Alice and Jean.

A Celebration of Life for close friends, family, and Team Toyota members will be held on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at The Club at Ironwood at 4:00 PM. In honor of a Quaker tradition, please bring a good story to share.

A private family graveside service will be held.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Augusta Regional SPCA (PO Box 2014, Staunton, VA 24402) or The Legacy at North Augusta (1410A North Augusta Street, Staunton, VA 24401) in her memory.

The family would like to give a special shoutout to two wonderful ladies who were always there – Callie Surber and Ann Smith. Plus, we can't forget her beloved dog, Oreo; she was always by her side. We also wish to thank the amazing teams at The Legacy, Legacy Hospice, and Dr. Kerry Alexander's office. We will be forever grateful for all your help.