Remembering Betsy McAleer
Jul 24, 2025
For over two decades, Betsy McAleer was the heart and soul of Bloomfield’s resale store, The Clothes Line, shaping its identity and evolution. During her tenure as co-chair, Betsy spent most Saturdays working double shifts at the store, where she was recognized for her warmth and humor. Betsy’s kind nature drove her to set up a customer email list to engage their community by sharing updates and sale information.
For Betsy, The Clothes Line was more than a store –– it was a mission of sustainability, community, and supporting research at Magee-Womens Research Institute. Betsy coordinated donations between the store and Magee-Womens Research Institute and collaborated closely with investigator Dr. Miguel Brieño-Enriquez.
Betsy first met Mary Lou Gatewood, friend and fellow Clothes Line volunteer, over 30 years ago on the golf course at the Pittsburgh Field Club. Both were members of the Women’s Golf Team, and formed an instant bond. “She took me under her wing and showed me the ropes,” Mary Lou recalled. “She was kind, considerate, sweet, and open. That’s just who she was.”
On and off the course, Betsy had a gift for making people feel welcome and appreciated. From her prior work at Talbots in Shadyside, and Annie’s Attic, to her work at the UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital Gift Shop, where she also recruited other volunteers for the Clothes Line.
Betsy’s legacy continues in the lives she touched and the community she helped build. From Magee-Womens to the Clothes Line, the golf course, and beyond, Betsy McAleer brought purpose to every corner of her community.
“Betsy was the glue that held the Clothes Line together. The loss is huge, and we all want to go on and make her proud".
Betsy’s commitment continues through the people she inspired. Peggy Snavely will now take on Betsy’s role as liaison between The Clothes Line and the Magee-Womens Research Institute, a testament to the infrastructure and relationships Betsy so thoughtfully built.
To donate in honor of Betsy McAleer, visit: https://mageewomens.org/support