We have put this book together because the Wrentham Council on Aging and I feel it is important for future generations to have some understanding of who Betsy Short was and how she lived.
The Reverend Dr. Paul Sanderson was present at Southwood Community Hospital when the life support machines keeping Betsy alive were turned off. In attendance besides the hospital staff were Jean Odams and Kris, Rick and Joy Eldridge. As we waited for Betsy's life to end, we shared our love and memories of Betsy. Rev. Sanderson kept notes and wrote the eulogy that is included in this book. He was able to capture the essence of Betsy. The following is a brief biography of Betsy's life

Betsy was born in Newburyport, MA on April 13, 1905 to George Short and Bessie (Hilliard) Short. She was christened Bessie, after her mother, but was always called Betsy. Six or seven years later her brother George, Jr. was born.
Betsy was a very precocious child who sailed through school and Simmons College with honors. After receiving a degree in Social Work she worked for some time at the YWCA. Then she accepted a job with Dr. Land at Polaroid when the company was in its infancy. Later she worked at the Massachusetts General Hospital. The job she enjoyed the most was serving as the office manager for Bingham, Dana and Gould, a large, prestigious law firm in Boston.
Betsy chose not to marry, although she certainly had opportunities. She once expressed that she had no desire to keep house for anyone. Betsy kept in contact with her Great niece, Laurie Jarvis. Laurie was the grand daughter of her brother George. George had died many years ago.


Betsy made her home with her cousin, Ruth Gordon in Boston and they summered in Wrentham on Lake Archer. Eventually they made their permanent home in Wrentham. When Ruth died, Betsy continued to live at their home on Lake Street with her three cats and two dogs. Betsy was ninety one and living alone with her two dogs (Cairns Terriers) Matilda and Too Too when she died.
Betsy was a participant at the Senior Center almost from the beginning in the early 1970's. She helped in the kitchen when the lunches were prepared by the Council on Aging. After Ruth's death, Betsy began to come to the Senior Center on a regular basis. Eventually she took on the job as our receptionist. She loved answering the phone and greeting the seniors. She was noted for her beautiful sweaters and her love of gardening and birds and animals.
Betsy's attorney, Colin Marshall, announced the gift of the trust at her funeral. Although Betsy didn't live long enough to see the Senior Center completed, she was able to attend the groundbreaking. Her gift to us and to all who follow, will enhance the cultural, recreational and social activities that she enjoyed at the Senior Center during her lifetime. Thank you Betsy.
Joy Eldridge,Director Senior Center
Wrentham Council on Aging
June 6, 1997

January 11, 1997

Dear Betsy,

Well you did it - you finished the course. You did it as you had lived, quietly, graciously and with dignity. Without demands or harsh words or even a frown. You finished well. You stuck with it until you were done. You hung tough when others would have given up. Never did you lose heart. Never did we hear you even whisper, "I can't do it anymore, I give up". When most of us would have been ready to throw in the towel, there you were, showing us that we must go on going on. Paul's words in II Timothy remind us of you,
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."


You certainly had more than your share of physical ailments. When others would have relegated themselves to a wheelchair, you insisted on walking. Your eyesight failed you, but you found many ways to compensate. It never stopped you from learning. You continued to be interested in everything that was happening in your world. Your mind was quick and your humor was always evident.

You were willing to share your extensive knowledge with others. You had so much to share, especially about gardens and animals. What delight you brought us when you identified a bird by its call. Children loved you, as you did them. It was always a mutual admiration society when children were involved..


We benefited by your years of experience managing the office of a large law firm.. And your handicaps never prevented you from coming to the Senior Center each day to answer the phone . However, your smile and your positive attitudes were your greatest contributions to us. How we will miss you.

Betsy will be remembered:

1. for her accomplishments, for what she did with her life

2. for her hobbies, her avocations

3. for her family life

4. for her personality, for her spirit

5. Betsy will be remembered

What would it mean if we were to become a living testimonial to Betsy?