What's Happening?
Elizabeth Blanton McGrath, known as Betsey, passed away at the age of 93 on September 26, 2025, in Hanover, New Hampshire. Betsey is survived by her three children, Peggy Sherman, Cathy McGrath, and Rob McGrath, as well as her sister Mary Blanton and six grandchildren. Betsey was born in Danville, Indiana, and attended Smith College, where she met her husband, Robert Gregory McGrath. The couple married in 1954 and lived in various locations due to Greg's naval service and later his career at Eastman Kodak in Rochester, New York. Betsey was deeply involved in community service, volunteering with the cooperative nursery school, PTA, Girl Scouts, and serving as Board president of the Irondequoit Public Library. In 1996, Betsey and Greg moved to Lake Morey in Fairlee, Vermont, where she continued her community involvement. After Greg's sudden death in 2009, Betsey moved to Kendal at Hanover, where she spent her winters and later resided permanently.
Why It's Important?
Betsey McGrath's life exemplifies a commitment to community service and family values. Her involvement in various community organizations highlights the impact one individual can have on local institutions and the lives of others. Her dedication to libraries and educational groups reflects the importance of volunteerism in supporting public resources and fostering community engagement. Betsey's story is a reminder of the lasting influence of personal contributions to society, particularly in nurturing educational and cultural institutions. Her legacy serves as an inspiration for future generations to engage in community service and uphold family traditions.
What's Next?
A celebration of Betsey's life is scheduled to take place at the Fairlee Town Hall on November 9, 2025. The event will offer an opportunity for family, friends, and community members to honor her contributions and share memories. Attendees can participate in person or via Zoom, ensuring broader access for those who wish to pay their respects. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Friends of the Fairlee Public Library, Fairlee Community Arts, or local libraries, continuing Betsey's legacy of supporting community resources.
Beyond the Headlines
Betsey McGrath's story underscores the cultural significance of libraries and community arts in fostering societal growth and cohesion. Her lifelong dedication to these causes highlights the ethical importance of supporting public institutions that provide educational and cultural enrichment. The celebration of her life and the call for donations to these organizations reflect a broader cultural appreciation for the role of volunteerism in sustaining community vitality and resilience.
