April 29, 1941 - March 31, 2024
TOWNSEND, BETSY LYNNE (WILEY), Westerville, Ohio, age 82, died March 31, 2024. Betsy passed away suddenly at home doing what she loved to do, preparing Easter dinner for her husband and grandson.
Betsy was born in Bay City, Michigan to Jack and Vera Wiley. She moved with her family to Midland, MI where she attended Midland Senior High and worked for The Dow Corning Corporation until she married James Townsend August 12, 1961. Betsy and Jim then moved to Laramie, WY while Jim attended the University of Wyoming and Betsy did secretarial work. After Jim graduated, they moved to Glen Ellyn, IL where they raised their two children, Heidi and Todd. Forty-six years ago they moved to Westerville. Betsy's passion for caring for others showed through her love of cooking and sharing what she made with friends and family. The door was always open in her home be it for card games, book club, or just to visit. Betsy never met a stranger.
Not one to sit idle, Betsy was very involved in the raising of her children while they were in school, as well as a member of Central College Presbyterian Church where she studied to become a Stephen Minister, active in the Hope Women's Circle, and Chair of the Holiday Cookie Walk for many many years. At Genoa Church Betsy was actively involved in Bible Study and Armed Forces Troop Ministry.
Betsy was preceded in death by her parents Jack and Vera Wiley and her daughter Heidi George (David). She is survived by her husband of 62 years, James, son Todd W. Townsend (Victoria), grandchildren Meridith Townsend, Matthew George, and Nicholas George, brother Jon Wiley, sister Joan McDonald, and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
As a daughter, granddaughter, sister, aunt, mother, grandmother, good friend, and beloved wife, Betsy will be deeply missed by many. If desired, friends may make contribution in memory of Betsy Townsend to the Heidi Townsend George Fund at the Bonhomme Presbyterian Church, ATTN Deanna Simpson, 14820 Conway Road, Chesterfield, MO 63017 (checks to be made out to the Bonhomme Presbyterian Church, noting the Heidi Townsend George Fund).
Private family service.
Condolences
Brendan and Carla Turney - Apr 14, 2024
Mrs. Townsend was a beautiful person inside and out. She was a wonderful mother and friend. She was strong, kind, compassionate and giving to everyone she met. We will miss her terribly. I have fond memories of our families sharing holidays, meals, sporting events, and friendship during our time in Glen Ellyn. We loved her and we will treasure the impact she has had on our lives. All our love, and God Bless the Townsend Family always, Brendan and Carla Turney
Sophie Morgan - Apr 12, 2024
Grandma T, not my biological grandmother, but she sure felt like one. I had the pleasure of knowing Heidi and the George family my whole life, 21 years. With the George family came the Townsend family. Grandma T (and Grandpa T, of course) treated me as if I was her own granddaughter. I have so many memories of going over to the George’s house for playdates and her being there and playing with us. After Heidi’s passing we were texting weekly, catching up and sharing Heidi stories. I know how much she missed Heidi and am so glad they are now together again in heaven. The day Grandma T died, on Easter, she had wished me a happy Easter and told me “life is eternal”. Although I am devastated she has passed, I am joyful to know she is in Heaven for eternity with Jesus Christ, her parents, and her beloved Heidi.
Sophie Morgan - Apr 12, 2024
Grandma T, not my biological grandmother, but she sure felt like one. I had the pleasure of knowing Heidi and the George family my whole life, 21 years. With the George family came the Townsend family. Grandma T (and Grandpa T, of course) treated me as if I was her own granddaughter. I have so many memories of going over to the George’s house for playdates and her being there and playing with us. After Heidi’s passing we were texting weekly, catching up and sharing Heidi stories. I know how much she missed Heidi and am so glad they are now together again in heaven. The day Grandma T died, on Easter, she had wished me a happy Easter and told me “life is eternal”. Although I am devastated she has passed, I am joyful to know she is in Heaven for eternity with Jesus Christ, her parents, and her beloved Heidi.
Chrissy Morgan - Apr 12, 2024
Betsy (AKA “Grandma T”) was so very beloved to me and my family. I met her 20+ years ago through her daughter, Heidi. Heidi and I lived down the street from one another and our families became the best of friends. Grandma T instantly loved on us as if we were her own. We have stayed in touch all these years. After Heidi’s passing Grandma T so lovenly kept in touch with me and my family through texts, cards and phone calls. She would even text with my girls. We were such dear friends. Her last text to me was the night before she passed (Easter Eve) where she was sending her love and Happy Easter wishes to me and my family. She was always so dear and sweet - she will forever be missed by me and my family. One sweet story to share, when I learned of Betsy’s passing I began to cry but in a moment God revealed a beautiful image to me of Heidi and Betsy. They were hugging, laughing and jumping up and down together - the sweet duo was back together again in the presence of God’s glory.
Jack & Susan Farnham - Apr 11, 2024
So sorry to hear of Betsy's passing. We have many good memories of the Townsend family in Autumn Woods. Our best to Jim and the entire family.