Elizabeth "Betty" D. Townsend

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Elizabeth “Betty” D. Townsend, 76, of Genoa, on October 31, 2024. 

She was born on February 28, 1948 in Corning, daughter of the late Richard and Helen (Hatt) Dean. Raised in Poplar Ridge, she attended Sherwood school and graduated in 1966. Elizabeth also graduated from Auburn Community College. In earlier years, she worked at Hogan-Souhan in Auburn and Dempsey Insurance in King Ferry. Betty supported her husband, Robert “Bob” K. Townsend with running Townsend Heating. She then worked at Ithaca College as a Merchandise Coordinator for 17 years, retiring in 2010 to become a full-time Nana. 

Betty met the love of her life and beloved husband, Bob of 48 years. Betty and Bob spent most of their years together living in Aurora before moving to Genoa to be closer to family. Betty was known for her spirit, strong will, and unwavering love and support for her family and community. She took great pride in her roles as a wife, mom, nana, sister, aunt, & friend. She loved her family, cat Jazz, & friends Faith, Denise, & Phyllis more than anything. Betty left many memories behind and will be missed by all that ever knew her. 

Betty was active in the community, volunteering with the Aurora Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary, Seven Lakes Girl Scout Council, & the Southern Cayuga School Boosters. She also worked part-time for the Cayuga County elections board, and BOCES Center for Learning. She was also a member of the Ledyard United Methodist Church.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Jennifer and Timothy Driscoll, and two grandchildren, Bryan and Kaley Driscoll, all of Genoa; a brother, Charles Dean (Tammy), and their daughter Nicole Sedorus (Justin) and their children, Avery and Colton, and their son James Dean (Kristina) and his daughter Jenna Dean; brothers and sisters-in-law; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, November 9 at the Shurtleff Funeral Home, 10117 State Route 90, Genoa, with the Rev. Barrie-Lyn Foster officiating. Interment will follow in Groton Rural Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home from 10:00-11:00 AM on Saturday, preceding the service. A lunch celebration of life will be held at the Locke firehouse immediately following, please come share your memories of Betty. 

 In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Genoa FD Rescue. Online condolences may be shared at www.shurtleffservices.com .