The Owego Rotary Club, Owego Kiwanis Club, and Owego Lions Club recently paid a surprise tribute to Elizabeth "Betty" Richards, owner of Richards Funeral Home.

Betty has served unselfishly as a pianist for almost 70 years for the civic clubs in Owego. She started playing for the clubs' meetings as a substitute pianist when she was 14 years old.

Approximately 130 people attended the tribute which was held at the Owego Elks Lodge. During dinner, the Owego Community Jazz Ensemble under the leadership of Al Smith played classical show tunes.

"I still am not recuperated. I feel it's a privilege and an honor to play for them," Betty said of the surprise honor. She is

In the above photo, Betty is holding the plaque she received in appreciation of her piano playing.