Beatrice T. Bettinger, 92, of Palm City, FL., formerly of New Tripoli, PA., passed away peacefully on Friday October 2, 2020. She was the wife of the late Kenneth J. Bettinger, who died in 1986. Daughter of Italian immigrants, Bernard Fiorentino and Rose Marie Endiso, Beatrice was born on January 19, 1928 in Orange, NJ. Beatrice, who was affectionately referred to as “Bea” or "Nana" to her grandchildren, was know for her undeniable love of her family, for sharing her artistry of porcelain doll making with others, drumming a handy wooden kitchen spoon when the kids needed a good scaring, and eventually became widely recognized as "the pickle lady" at the local flea market in Stuart, Florida.
With her wide-rimmed glasses and bright patterned shirts, she'd spend weekends visiting countless Goodwills, thrift stores and flea markets with her children and grandchildren...continuing the Reffie/Caamano legacy of antique treasure hunting. She also loved a nice walk along the beach, collecting countless seashells, to put in jars at home. On any given night, you could find her simmering a pot of her homemade sauce for sausage and peppers, rolling meatballs, and serving up bowls of "gavadeels" to family. During the holidays, you know her famous Italian sweet pie would be making an appearance.
She is survived by two of her eight siblings, James and Emanuel Fiorentino, as well as her children, Patricia Caamano, Michael Reffie, Peter Reffie and his wife Amy, and Theresa Snyder. She is also survived by thirteen loving grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.
Nana had a heart of gold...never turning down an opportunity to share her wit and quirky words of advice with those around her. She embodied everything that "family" meant and more. Embracing everyone around her with warmth and care, she was a source of comfort for so many and will be missed dearly by all who had the opportunity to cross her path. Private graveside funeral service on Jacob’s Union Cemetery in New Tripoli, PA. will take place at the convenience of the family.
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