Betty Haddad

BETTY HADDAD Cedar Rapids Betty Haddad, 86, loving mother, sittee, and aunt, passed away peacefully on Nov. 27, 2015, at Linn Manor Care Center in Marion. Betty married the love of her life, James Haddad, on Jan. 16, 1955, in Oklahoma City, Okla. Betty is survived by her son, Jim (Jo), and the two most important people in her life, her grandchildren, Anthony and Nicole. She also is survived by her nephew/second son, Terry (Karen) Smith, and their families; two special sisters-in-law, Sally Ruffin and Martha Haddad; and countless nieces and nephews spread across the country. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jim (2006), and her parents, Tom and Adele Ruffin. She was the last remaining sibling of the eight Ruffin brothers and sisters who were born and raised in the Cedar Rapids area. Her life is best summarized by two words: faith and family. She was a lifelong member of St. George Orthodox Church and was involved in many facets of the church, including president of the Ladies Society, singing in the choir and organizing the annual church dinners. She was always first to volunteer at weddings, baptisms and funerals. She cherished each minute she spent at the church and always worked for the betterment of the faith and community of St. George. As a result, the parishioners called her "Aunt Betty" as her love for all was clear to anyone who met her. Betty's family was always at the top of her list, and her happiest days were when she was surrounded by them. She loved the calls, reunions, weddings and all the special events. Always the life of the party (and the boss!), these were the special times of her life. Last year, her 85th birthday and the 100th anniversary of St. George brought much of her family and friends from all over to celebrate together. These two weekends were very special to her, and she never missed a minute. Betty and Jim's home was always open to everyone. No one left without a smile on their face, a full meal and a feeling of love. As avid Hawkeye fans, they were the original tailgaters before it became popular. The spread was always large and open to all. The family would especially like to thank all the staff at Linn Manor, who cared for her the past seven years, as she considered them part of her family, and especially Dr. Melanie Stahlberg, who was much more than a doctor to her. Visitation will be Sunday, Nov. 29, from 4 to 7 p.m. at St. George Orthodox Church, 3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE. Trisagion prayers will follow at 7 p.m. The funeral will be Monday, Nov. 30, at 10 a.m. at St. George, followed by interment at St. George Cemetery, officiated by the Very Rev. Fred Shaheen. Brosh Chapel in Cedar Rapids is handling Betty's arrangements. Memorial contributions may be given to St. George. Betty and Jim's life can best be summarized by the biblical verse: "Well done, good and faithful servant." Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.broshchapel.com.