Elizabeth Koss

Elizabeth T. Koss, known affectionately as "Betty" to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2026, at the age of 99 in Raleigh, North Carolina. Born on July 26, 1926, in Detroit, Michigan, Betty was the beloved only child of Arthur and Isabella Forrester, who emigrated from Dundee, Scotland. She was named after Princess Elizabeth of York, who would later become Queen Elizabeth II of England.

Betty's life was a tapestry of love, adventure, and creativity. She was the cherished wife of the late Frank E. Koss, her childhood sweetheart with whom she graduated from Hazel Park High School in 1944. Their love story was one for the ages, culminating in a marriage in 1946 that was filled with shared experiences and global explorations. From camel rides in Egypt to admiring the cherry blossoms in Japan, Betty and Frank embraced the world with open arms.

After years of adventure and raising three wonderful children, Betty and Frank made their home in Raleigh, NC. Betty's life was marked by her zest for living and her commitment to her family. She was predeceased by her husband Frank Koss and her grandson, Steven Koss. She leaves behind a legacy of love and joy to her children, David M. Koss and wife Pauline of Wake Forest, NC, Shannon Koss-Curtin and husband Kenneth of Louisburg, NC, and Roger A. Koss and wife Linda of Raleigh, NC. Betty was a proud grandmother to Gary Koss, Tracy Careyette, Matthew Koss, Frank Koss, and Shannon Henriquez, and a doting great-grandmother to Lindley, Avery, Aubrey, McKinley, Taylor, and Ana.

Betty's interests and talents were as varied as the places she visited. An accomplished golfer, she enjoyed the camaraderie and challenge of the game. Her love for reading kept her mind sharp and her conversations lively. Betty's hands were rarely still, as she expressed her creativity through quilting, sewing, knitting, crocheting, and even bowling. Each stitch and page turned was a testament to her loving, kind, and thoughtful nature.

As we remember Elizabeth T. Koss, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of passion and purpose. Her passports full of stamps are a testament to her adventurous spirit, while her address books full of friends speak to the warmth and generosity of her heart. Betty's legacy is one of love, kindness, and the beauty of a life shared with others. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her spirit will continue to inspire us every day.

A graveside service will be held at Pine Forest Memorial Gardens at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Betty's memory to your local animal shelter.