Elizabeth Lee "Bette" Malavich

Elizabeth “Bette” Lee Malavich, age 99, of Fairborn, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 21, 2026. She was born April 3, 1927, at Miami Valley Hospital (Dayton, Ohio), the daughter of James A. and Sara Belle (Darnell) O’Neal. The O’Neals were pioneer residents of the newly located Osborn, Ohio (now Fairborn, Ohio).

Elizabeth was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband of 42 years, John Malavich (d. 1991), her son Jeffrey (d. 1991), her daughter-in-law Margaret (d. 1991), and brother Robert O’Neal (d. 1980).

She is survived by her caring daughter, Lisa Ann Howell of Fairborn, three grandchildren, Katie Lee (Steve) of Louisville, KY; Steven Howell (Tyre’) of Centerville, OH; Kristine Gillispie (Nick) of Tucson, AZ; and five great-grandchildren, Meredith Lee, Sophia Howell, Teagan Howell, Lane Gillispie and Louisa Gillispie.

Elizabeth was the oldest active member of First Presbyterian Church, Fairborn, where she joined at age 13 in 1940. She was a member of Bath High School alumni, having graduated in 1945. She was also a charter member of the Rona Hills Women’s Club. Luncheons and dinner dates with these groups was always a part of her social life she truly enjoyed.

Outside of her cherished family get togethers, Elizabeth found great joy in attending live theatre, traveling to all 50 states and over 50 countries and islands, including 26 cruises in many parts of the world, relating many exciting experiences.

Elizabeth had been employed by Southwestern Portland Cement Company for a number of years as secretary to the sales and credit manager, having retired after the birth of her children.

The family will receive visitors Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 9:30 AM to 10:15 AM at the Belton-Stroup Funeral Home, 422 E. Dayton-Yellow Springs Road, Fairborn, OH, 45324. A funeral procession will depart promptly at 10:30 AM on the route to Glen Haven Memorial Gardens, New Carlisle, where a graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund in her memory or to Smile Train, the leading charity for children born with cleft lips and palates.

Following the graveside service, the family invites all to join them for a meal at the Beavercreek Olive Garden, one of Bette's favorite restaurants, where she especially enjoyed sharing good food and conversation with those she loved.