North Pomfret, Vermont

Elizabeth “Betty” Stetson, cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and a lifelong member of the Pomfret community, passed away peacefully at her home on May 11, 2026. Born in Pomfret on May 1, 1934 to Levi Dudley and Josephine Leavitt, Betty’s life was marked by dedication—to her family, faith, and the many facets of her vibrant local community.

Betty’s early years were shaped by her time at South Royalton School, where she boarded during the week, an experience that laid the groundwork for her independent spirit and lifelong love of learning. Her professional journey included meaningful roles at Utica Mutual Insurance and the Soil Conservation office in Woodstock, Vermont, and ended up in partnership helping to run the Leon J. Stetson Insurance Agency, reflecting her commitment to service and community involvement.

In 1954, Betty married Leon Stetson, embarking on a partnership that would span decades. Together, they built their home on family land in 1971, establishing a foundation that would nurture generations to come. Their household was a hub of love and creativity, echoing Betty’s passions and values.

A pillar of her church, Betty was an active member of the North Pomfret Congregational Church for nearly 70 years. Her dedication extended beyond Sunday services as an enthusiastic contributor to and organizer of the annual Strawberry Supper, an event that knit the community together and brought joy to many.

Betty’s talents and interests were as wide-ranging as they were heartfelt. She was an avid crafter, particularly skilled in counted cross stitch and quilting, a pastime that allowed her to express her artistic flair. She was a central figure in the Pomfret Ladies’ Circle for over 40 years, creating group quilts every year to fund scholarships for local students. Her garden was a testament to her nurturing nature, bursting with both flowers and vegetables that thrived under her care. Betty found pleasure in the simple beauty of spring blossoms and the lively presence of birds, especially cardinals, which she watched through her bay window with quiet delight. Her love of books and puzzles enriched her days, while her culinary skills were shared generously—her chocolate chip cookies became a signature treat cherished by family and friends alike.

She loved teaching others to cook and bake, passing on traditions and creating memories around the kitchen table. Betty’s nurturing spirit extended beyond immediate family, touching all who had the good fortune to know her.

Betty is survived by her sisters Marjorie VanAlstyne, Marian Whitaker and Jeanne Rikert; her brother John Leavitt; and her four devoted children: Janice Perron (Frank), Colleen Wells, Julie Stride, and Ronald Stetson (Jean). Her legacy lives on through eleven grandchildren—Becky Fielder (Sam), Amanda Perron, Melinda Perron, Marc Perron (Jackie), Gary Wells Jr. (Leslie), Stefanie Vargas (Chris), Jenny Stout (Eddie), Jason Stride, Larissa Stride, Christopher Maxfield (Shelbie), and Joshua Castleberry—and seventeen great-grandchildren: Eli, Molly, Mya, Ryan, Jackson, Dylan, Landrum, Gracen, Evyn, Ella, Maddie, Lily, Henry, Joey, Hilda, Caleb, Colby, Amythist, and Sage, whose lives she deeply enriched.

In addition to her parents, Betty was predeceased by her beloved husband Leon, along with her brothers Levi Dudley “Bud” Leavitt and Edwin Leavitt and sons-in-law Gary Wells Sr. and Ric Stride.

A Memorial Service to honor Betty will be held at the North Pomfret Congregational Church on Saturday, May 23rd, at 2:00 p.m., followed by a gathering at the Stetson home at 8649 Pomfret Road in North Pomfret.

Memorial Donations can be made to the Thompson Senior Center, 99 Senior Lane, Woodstock, VT 05091 or to the North Pomfret Congregational Church, PO Box 308, North Pomfret, VT 05053