Elizabeth "Betsy" Thomas

THOMAS, Elizabeth A. "Betsy" (Ryan) Of Walpole, formerly of Watertown, passed peacefully on February 21st, surrounded by her loving family, at the age of 53. Beloved wife of Roger Thomas of 25 years. Loving daughter of Dorothy Ryan and the late John A. of Watertown. Devoted mother of Carley and Brooke Thomas, both of Walpole. Cherished sister of Kathy Erickson and her husband Steve of Manchester, CT, Maureen Ryan of Watertown, and John Ryan of Salem, NH. Sister-in-law of Jeffrey Thomas of Methuen. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and her beloved dog "Barkley." Funeral from the Alexander F. Thomas & Sons Funeral Home, 45 Common St., WALPOLE, Friday morning at 11 a.m., followed by a Funeral Service at United Church of Walpole, at 12 p.m. Visiting Hours Thursday evening, from 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment Terrace Hill Cemetery, Walpole. Relatives and friends invited.

Betsy's greatest love was for her family.  She met her husband and soulmate, Roger, when she was only 24 years old.  They did everything together, even if it was just going to Walmart.  They adored each other's company.  Roger was her rock, as well as her best friend.

Throughout the years together, their love grew to include (2) beautiful children, Carley and Brooke.  Betsy treasured being their mother and embraced every precious moment with them.  She particularly enjoyed being the "Team Mom" to her daughters' cheerleading squads.  Her highlight was when the family could escape to their dog-friendly family vacations to Cape Cod and Ogunquit, which had to include Barkley, her "son".

As a creative person and loving soul, it was only natural for Betsy to become a pre-school teacher at South Walpole Community Pre-School.  She was famously known for her hugs and as one parent stated, "As a parent, you felt safe knowing that Betsy was looking after your kids and you knew how much she loved them.  They were her kids, as well".  It was heartwarming to Betsy, when her pre-school children, some now in high school, sent her a group photo, to show their love and support to her while she battled cancer.

Betsy was especially close to her sisters, Kathy and Maureen.  They were not only family, but best friends.  Betsy was known to be incredibly funny and she enjoyed making people laugh.  One time when she thought Maureen could not attend a party of hers, she made a life-size cutout of her, which was then photographed hanging out at the pool and joining in on the festivities.

Betsy had an amazing gift of connecting to people, as evidenced by the many friends she had.  There was such a lovely way about her that people were drawn to.

We are so thankful for the care Betsy received at Dana Farber, Brigham and Womens Hospital and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.  Even the physicians, nurses, and physician assistants developed a bond with Betsy, so much so that they continually went out of their way to see her when they knew she was in the hospital.

Betsy had an impact on so many people from her family, friends, students, community, to her care providers.  We will miss this angel who has graced us with her love.

We know Betsy would not want us to grieve, but to live life passionately.  Throughout her journey, she taught us to find joy every day, despite circumstances.  She would want people to spend time with their families, take their children to the movies, send flowers to someone they love, and make someone smile by doing something for someone else.  This is her legacy of kindess.  Please in lieu of flowers all donations in Betsy's memory can be made to Dana Farber Cancer Institute

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