Elizabeth "Betty" Worth (Whipple) Kish

IN LOVING MEMORY

Elizabeth “Betty” Worth Kish

March 27, 1943 – July 19, 2026

Elizabeth Worth “Betty” Kish, 83, of Santa Rosa Beach, passed away on July 19, 2026, at the Barclay Assisted Living Facility.

Born on March 27, 1943, in Norwalk, Connecticut, Betty was the daughter of Kathlyn Worth Whipple and Joseph Reed Whipple.

She grew up on a farm in Vermont with her sister, Mary Whipple, and her six brothers, Andy, Jim, Fred, John, Walter, and Bud Whipple. Her upbringing helped shape the strong work ethic, resilience, and devotion to family that remained with her throughout her life.

Betty built a life defined by compassion, determination, and service. While working full time as a nurse, she continued her education and became a registered nurse. She later served as Director of Nursing at Garden Park Hospital. Caring for others was not simply her profession; it was one of the clearest expressions of who she was.

Betty married Frank Kish, Sr., and they made their home first in Norwalk, Connecticut, before later moving to Long Beach, Mississippi, and then Florida. Betty and Frank eventually settled in Santa Rosa Beach to be near their family, and it was there that they spent much of their retired life.

She worked tirelessly throughout her life to provide for and care for her husband, Frank Kish, Sr., and their children. Betty was a Christian and a woman of high moral character, with warmth and a wonderful sense of humor. She found her greatest joy in spending time with family and in making sure the people she loved felt supported and cared for.

Family gatherings were especially meaningful to Betty. She took great pride in her grandchildren and loved watching them compete in sports, celebrating their educational accomplishments, and being present for the important moments in their lives. She was a constant and loving presence in the lives of both her children and grandchildren, and the close relationships she built with them were among her greatest treasures.

Betty was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frank Kish, Sr.; her sister, Mary Whipple; her six brothers, Andy, Jim, Fred, John, Walter, and Bud Whipple; and her cherished little dog, Kichi, whom she loved dearly.

She is survived by her youngest son, Alex Kish and wife, Diana Kish, whom she shared a special bond, their son, Zachary, and daughter, Madalyn Kish. Additionally, her eldest son, Frank and wife, Judy Kish and their two sons, Ayden and Keaton Kish. She also held a special place in her heart for Diana’s mother, Joan Falkenstein.

Betty will be remembered for the care she gave so freely, the strength and character with which she lived, and her unwavering devotion to her family. Her love, laughter, strength, and example will continue to live on in all who knew and loved her.

A memorial service honoring Betty’s life will be held at Good News Church in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. Please join us for the celebration of life on Sunday, August 23, 2026 at 1:30 p.m.

 Donations in Betty's honor may be made to St Jude Children's Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or go online.