Elizabeth “Betty” Owens, 81, of Auburn, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital — a date that would have marked her 60th wedding anniversary with her beloved husband, Thomas “Mike” Owens, who predeceased her in 2023. She leaves her son, Patrick Owens, and his wife, Catherine, of Seabrook, NH; her daughter, Michelle Owens of Milford, MA; her grandchildren, Kelly Marsocci and her husband, Anthony, and Michael Owens; her great-granddaughter, Madison Marsocci; two sisters, Judith Wheelden and Sharon Williams and her husband, David; her brother-in-law, Edward Owens and his wife, Virginia; and many nieces and nephews. Betty held a special place in her heart for Heather (Hagan) Ferguson, who was like another daughter to her, along with Heather’s husband, Brian, and their three children: Connor, Nathan and Charlotte. She was predeceased by her sister, Diane Hagan.
Betty was born in Lakeland, Florida, the daughter of the late Charles and Mildred (O'Donnell) Vayo. She graduated from South High School and attended Quinsigamond Community College. Betty had a remarkable 40+ year career at Colony Retirement Homes. Over the years, she held various roles, always bringing dedication, kindness, and quiet strength to everything she did. Her colleagues became more than just coworkers; they were her second family. Betty’s commitment to her work and the residents she served was unwavering. She had continued to work until the day she was stricken at home, June 9, 2025, a true testament to her dedication and sense of purpose. Outside of work, Betty led a rich and fulfilling life. She enjoyed gatherings with her South High School classmates and the Randall School Library Mothers, groups that brought her lasting friendships and many joyful times filled with conversation and camaraderie. Betty also found great joy in the summers she spent on Cape Cod, a place that held special memories and brought her peace. Whether walking along the shore, enjoying a quiet afternoon on the porch, or simply soaking in the ocean breeze, Cape Cod was her sanctuary. A lover of books, Betty could often be found reading, always eager to lose herself in a good story or to learn something new.
Betty will be remembered for her warmth, resilience, and her ability to find joy in both the big and small moments of life. Her steady presence, gentle humor, and generous heart touched the lives of many.
Calling hours will be on Monday, July 14th, beginning at 10:00 AM in O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue. A funeral service will be held for Betty at 11:30 AM in the funeral home following the calling hours. Burial will be private, at the convenience of the family. To celebrate Betty’s love for the beach, the family is requesting all friends and family to dress summer (resort) casual. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the American Stroke Association. The address for each organization is PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.