Elsbeth Abbey

Elsbeth Abbey passed away Saturday, November 8, 2008 at 2:45 AM.

Elsbeth was born Elsbeth Gwendolyn Nutt on September 11, 1914 in Mendon, IL to parents Fred and Ora Nutt. She married Donald B. Abbey May 12, 1938.

Elsbeth was well-known for her kindness to others, her beautiful smile and the love she gave to her family. She had three children: Janet Rowley of Naples, FL and her husband, Charles Rowley, Susan Cluff of Seabrook, TX and her husband, John Cluff, and Jeff Abbey of Fairfield, IA and his wife, Tina; Elsbeth's six grandchildren: Laura, Patrick, Shanon, Jaime, Rachel, and Sheena Hope; Five great-grandchildren: Anthony, Michael, Rascshard, Zachary, and Rebecca.

At age 12, Elsbeth's father, Fred Nutt, started Fairfield Lumber Company in April, 1926. She started working with her father at the Lumber company at an early age and then upon her father's death, she and her husband Donald, operated the company until her husband's death and her retirement in 1977.

Elsbeth graduated from Fairfield High School in 1933, where she was fondly known as 'Bub', and also attended classes at Parsons College.

Elsbeth was an excellent cook and was very well-known for her hospitality. She enjoyed hosting parties and special meals for her family and many close friends. She was active in the First Christian Church, the Jefferson County Hospital Auxiliary, and the Fairfield Womens Club. Through all of her activities, she loved watching Iowa Hawkeyes Men's Basketball.

Preceding her in death were her parents, her husband, Donald Abbey, and her son-in-law, Jerry Harris.

Our family would like to thank Elsbeth's care-givers at Sunnybrook Assisted Living, Hospice of Central Iowa, and our very dear friend, Juanita Shipler.

The family will be attending a private burial for Elsbeth on Wednesday at Evergreen Cemetery, and will then welcome friends at the McElhinny House from 2:00 to 4:00 PM.

Friends may sign the book of condolence Monday & Tuesday (Nov. 10th & 11th) between the hours of 9:00 and 4:00 PM. Her body has been cremated in accordance with her wishes.

Online condolences may be sent via www.behnerfh.com

In lieu of flowers, Elsbeth always enjoyed the McElhinny House, therefore, memorials have been established to the McElhinny House Foundation or Hospice of Central Iowa. Please send memorials and cards to
1987 Libertyville Road
Fairfield, IA 52556

Elsbeth was a wonderful woman and she will be dearly missed.