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ELIZABETH T. "BETTY" A New Mexico resident since 1987, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, February 1st with all ten of her children at her bedside. Preceded in death by her beloved husband, Larry. Betty is survived by daughters, Betty Anne McDermott (husband Terry), Kathleen Potapchuk (husband John), Maureen Kilcommons (husband Tom), Rita Ollquist (husband Bob), Patricia McLaughlin (husband Bob), Eileen Patrick (husband Mike), Jeanne Reiffenberger (husband Rich); sons, Larry McCabe (wife Michelle), Kevin McCabe (wife Debbie), Brian McCabe (wife Cathy); 33 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; her sister, Kathy (husband Bill); and many other nieces, nephews, friends and relatives. Born and raised in Brooklyn, Betty attended St. Francis Xavier high school where a prophetic "She will probably marry a policeman and have twelve children" captioned her senior picture in the 1949 year book. The prophecy was fulfilled on June 23, 1951 when she married Larry McCabe and began a marriage that lasted 59 years and produced ten children. Larry treated Betty as his young bride 'til the day he died and she was the beautiful reflection of his love and devotion. After living ten years in Brooklyn and another 25 in Rockville Centre, N.Y., they moved to New Mexico in 1987 where she added to the family tree. The full time job of mother to ten made her part time psychologist, nurse, disciplinarian, comforter, referee, traffic cop (go to your room), chauffer, humorist and homework helper and full time cook (dinner for 12 every night). Her wisdom and uncanny ability to focus on the important would have been the envy of Solomon. We will always remember how fiercely loyal and unconditional her love was for each of us; how gracious and thoughtful she remained through the years; never missing an anniversary, birthday, confirmation, communion or any special occasion of her ten children, 33 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, dozens of nieces, nephews and good friends. This feat alone made her utterly remarkable to us all. We shall forever miss her sparkling, Irish eyes and the charming, girlish smile that so easily, and often, graced her face. Always the lady, mom carried herself with dignity and class but her sense of mischief and fun was never far behind. Her grandchildren will best remember her for her infectious laugh, her wonderful sense of humor and her insightful pearls of "wacky wisdom" affectionately referred to as "Nannyisms". It was not uncommon for the grandkids to spend Saturday nights at Nanny's playing cards, Monopoly, Scrabble or just simply enjoying the pleasure of her company. Hers was a life completely and totally well-lived. We shall miss her so! Heartbroken at the passing of her beloved Larry 17 months ago, mom longed for the day when they would be reunited. The reunion happened on Wednesday when Our Lord and Savior called her home to where there is no more death or mourning, crying or pain and He has wiped every tear from her eyes. We do not mourn mom's death but celebrate the life of service, love and faith she bestowed on us. You've run your race. You've crossed the finish line. Mom, it's time to go home. Your Larry is waiting. He's holding a table for two, near the band. It's time to dance. A Visitation will be held from 2:00pm - 4:00pm and from 7:00pm - 9:00pm with a Wake Service at 7:00pm, Friday, February 3, 2012 at Daniels Family Funeral Services, Sara Road Chapel, 4310 Sara Road, Rio Rancho, NM. A second Visitation will be held from 4:00pm - 6:00pm and from 7:00pm - 9:00pm with a Wake Service at 7:00pm, Saturday, February 4, 2012 at Daniels Family Funeral Services, Sara Road Chapel. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1:00pm, Monday, February 6, 2012 at Church of the Incarnation, 2309 Monterrey Road NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144. Entombment will follow at Vista Verde Memorial Park, 4310 Sara Road SE, Rio Rancho, NM. In lieu of flowers friends and relatives may wish to make a memorial contribution to the Church of the Incarnation Building Fund, 2309 Monterrey Road NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124. To view information or leave a condolence, please visit: www.danielsfuneral.com Elizabeth's care entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services 4310 Sara Road SE Rio Rancho, New Mexico 87124 505-892-9920
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