Elizabeth E. Derck Moravian volunteer, Warwick Ambulance treasurer

Elizabeth Ellen Spencer Derck, "Betsie," mother, grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully in bed at the Moravian Manor Sunday, Aug. 26, 2012. She fought a hard fight for the last few months and is now in peace with God. A few months ago we celebrated her 80th Birthday, and a friend said it well: "She is the greatest person I have ever met." We will all miss her.

She was born Feb. 18, 1932 and grew up in Abington.

She graduated from Abington High School and Pierce School of Business in Philadelphia. She was a partner in the Backporch Candle Shoppe, one of the first shops created within Zum Anker Alley in downtown Lititz. Betsie was very active in the community. She was a member of the Lititz Moravian Congregation for 40+ years and was president, trustee, financial secretary, taught Bible school and volunteered in the church office for 20 years. She was the president of the Lititz Women’s Club, president of ABC of Lititz, and assistant treasurer of Warwick Ambulance for 10 years. She also wrote and performed in ABC shows and helped at the Meals on Wheels. She was active at Moravian Manor, working in the gift shop and as president of the Lamplighters Association. She was honored with the Mildred Bender Award in 2009. She was passionate about reading, gardens, flowers, playing bridge with friends and staying in touch on her iPad. She enjoyed her life, had many friends and was loved by all.

Betsie was a proud mother of three: Gary, husband of Janet Derck, of Durango, Colo.; Linda Derck Majikes, wife of Matthew Majikes, of Richmond, Va.; and Robert R., husband of Stacey Derck, of Lititz. She leaves a legacy of five grandchildren: Alden Derck, Matthew Majikes Jr., Daniel Majikes, Robert Derck III (Trey) and Nathan Derck.

She is preceded in death by her brother: Clinton R. Spencer Jr., of Lansdale; and parents: Clinton R. Spencer and Ellen Elizabeth Strode.

A memorial service was held on Sept. 3 at the Moravian Church at 10:30 a.m. with a reception following at Steinman Hall at Moravian Manor. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Moravian Manor Benevolent Care Fund, 300 W Lemon St., Lititz, PA 17543.

To share fondest memories of Betsie, visit lifecelebrations.com. Spacht Funeral Home, Lititz, has been entrusted with the arrangements.