Betty Griffith

In Loving Memory of Betty Baas Rodgers Griffith

Betty Baas Rodgers Griffith, 84, of Apollo Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully in her home on January 31, 2025. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Betty lived a life filled with adventure, love, and an infectious zest for life.

Born and raised as the youngest of four siblings in the northern suburbs of New Jersey, Betty spent much of her youth helping her parents, Anna McManaman and Merle Baas, at their iconic restaurant, the “Hickory Hut”—one of the first classic drive-ins reminiscent of Happy Days. Even from a young age, she was independent and adventurous, qualities that led her to become a flight attendant for United Airlines at just 19, during the golden age of air travel.

It was on one of these flights that she met Jerry Rodgers, the love of her life. They soon married, and Betty left the airlines to embrace her greatest role—being a devoted and joyful mother and grandmother. Together, they built a life in Tampa, and traveled the world, creating cherished memories. Later in life, Betty worked for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, contributing to causes she deeply cared about.

After Jerry’s passing in 1987, Betty found love again with William “Bill” Griffith. The two shared wonderful years together, often spending time aboard their boat at Marina Jack’s in Sarasota.

Betty had a remarkable spirit—she was a fantastic dancer, an avid traveler, and a self-taught gourmet cook who mastered the art of French cuisine with the help of her cherished Julia Child cookbooks. A sharp and strategic thinker, she was an excellent bridge player and kept her mind sharp with FreeCell and Wordle. She was also a passionate follower of politics and could engage in lively discussions about current events with ease.

Above all, Betty will be remembered for her radiant smile, lighthearted charm, and the warmth she brought into every room.

She is survived by her loving children, Peggy Kalas of Huntington Bay, NY, and Michael Rodgers of Washington, D.C. her devoted son-in-law, John Kalas, and adored grandchildren, Jeremy and Alexander Kalas.

A celebration of Betty’s life will be held on Friday, February 7, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at the Southshore Falls Clubhouse in Apollo Beach, Florida. Following cremation, her ashes will be interred at Serenity Meadows Memorial Park in Riverview, FL.