Bette Louise Davis Cholish, a beloved educator, devoted family member, and active community member, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2026, in her hometown of Scranton, PA. Born on July 20, 1951, she was the daughter of the late Alfred Bowen Davis, Jr and Ethel Beacham Davis. Bette was a lifelong resident of West Scranton, where she touched the lives of many with her warmth, kindness, and dedication to education. She was the wife of William Joseph Cholish, Sr with whom she shared 51 years of marriage.

Bette was a proud graduate of West Scranton High School, class of 1969. She went on to further her education at Marywood University, where she earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees in Home Economics and Elementary Education. Her passion for teaching and commitment to her students were evident throughout her 40-year career in the Scranton School District, where she served as a beloved teacher and proud member of the Scranton Federation of Teachers.

Bette's commitment to education extended to her community involvement. As a dedicated member and former historian of Scranton Women Teachers, she tirelessly contributed to fundraising efforts, ensuring that educational resources remained available for all students often reaching into her own pocket to ensure her students had winter coats, gloves, snacks, and the supplies they needed to ensure their success. One of her most cherished traditions was serving a Thanksgiving dinner to her students each year, creating a memorable experience that they would carry with them long after they left her classroom.

Faith played a significant role in Bette's life. A lifelong member of Embury United Methodist Church, she served in many capacities, including Lay Leader, historian, and superintendent of the Sunday school, where she was also a teacher for 25 years. She was a founding member and instrumental in the formation of the Sisters of the Heart. Her leadership and dedication to her church community were a testament to her faith and commitment to nurturing the next generation. She was the granddaughter of Gertrude Beacham, a founding member of Embury.

Her greatest joy was her family, and she treasured every moment spent with them. She will be remembered for the love, strength, kindness, and memories she gave to each of them, and her presence will forever remain in their hearts.

Bette is survived by her loving husband of 51 years, William Joseph Cholish Sr, who washer selfless caregiver; her children, William Cholish Jr. and his wife Betheny, Steven Cholish and his wife Christina and Amber Normil and husband Dukenson; her grandchildren, Gabrielle Cholish, William Joseph Cholish III, Leo Cholish, Emilia Normil ,Elsie Normil, and Dukenson Normil Jr.; cousins and countless close friends.

Bette will be remembered not only for her contributions to education and faith but also for her joyous spirit and the love she shared with her family and community. Her legacy will continue to inspire those she touched during her extraordinary life.

The family would like to extend its sincerest gratitude to the staff of DaVita Dialysis Montage, the staff of Geisinger CMC and Regional Hospital of Scranton who always went above and beyond in caring for Bette in recent years.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday at 10:00 AM at Embury United Methodist Church942 S. Main Ave Scranton officiated by Rev. Eric Luczak, pastor. Interment at Washburn Street Cemetery and a luncheon will follow.

Friends may call Monday from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Embury United Methodist Church Memorial Fund 942 S Main Ave Scranton, PA 18504 or the SFT Scholarship Fund c/o Scranton Federation of Teachers IBEW Building 431 Wyoming Avenue Scranton, PA 18503.