WESTBROOK-It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Betty Elaine (Rice) Rust, 86, of Westbrook, ME, formally of North Waterford, ME who passed peacefully on July 27, 2023 following a short period of declining health. She was born on September 27, 1936 to the late Ida Genevieve (Jennie) and Ralph Rice. Betty was a beacon of light to all who had the privilege to know her. She was raised in North Waterford, ME and attended her early school years in what is now the Waterford Post Office and was one of the first students to attend the Waterford Memorial School. She graduated from Norway High School in 1955, now known as the Guy E. Rowe School in Norway, ME. Betty had 3 main loves, her family, God, and the Red Sox. On June 20th,1964 she married Rev. Norman F Rust. Although she had a few jobs outside the home she was a dedicated and loving mother to her children, Brian and Barbara, and was a devoted minister's wife for over 50 years, visiting and becoming members at many churches throughout the State of Maine, and making numerous friends along the way. Betty's faith in the Lord and her eternal optimism were remarked on by everyone who knew her. Betty's kind and loving spirit will be deeply missed. She was predeceased by her husband Norman, parents Jenny and Ralph Rice, and brother Robert Rice. Betty is survived by her son Brian Rust and wife Deborah Amori of Allston MA, daughter Barbara Staires and husband Anthony Staires of Denmark, ME, Grandchildren Justin Staires, Mariah Staires, and Luke Staires, Great Grandchildren Avelyn Staires, Brendan Staires, Carrigan Staires, and Brooke Harris, all of whom she adored. Betty's family would like to thank her dear friends and longtime hairdressers Carolyn and Linda,the staff and residents at Springbrook Center in Westbrook for the loving care and friendship they provided in her later years, Compassus Hospice and most especially Pastor Nate Colson and the congregation of the West Gorham Union Church who all provided much love and joy to Betty. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 27th at 2pm at the West Gorham Union Church, 190 Ossipee Trail (Rt.25) Gorham, ME. May her spirit live on through the memories we have and the unconditional love she showed us all.