Elizabeth "Betty" Lavender

Elizabeth “Betty” (MacKenzie) Lavender, age 78, of Newburyport, MA, passed on September 1, 2025, at the Kaplan Family Hospice House in Danvers surrounded by her loving family. She was predeceased by her devoted husband, Alan P. Lavender, who passed on February 28, 2017.

Born in Brookline on September 5, 1946, she was the daughter of the late Donald Harold MacKenzie and the late Ida (MacMillan) MacKenzie.

A 1968 graduate of the University of Connecticut with a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy, Betty worked for many years as a physical therapist. While raising her family, she worked as a teacher at Children’s House, a nursery school founded by her friend Rita Bass. She later worked for multiple nursing homes, where her knowledge of physical therapy and Medicare procedures were highly valued.

Betty was active in many community organizations and served on the boards of the YWCA Greater Newburyport, and the Friends of the Newburyport Public Library, where she served as the membership secretary. She was also a devoted and faithful cashier at the Friends’ “Great Old Book Sale.” Currently held twice a year, the book sale is the Friends’ primary source of funding for such library programs as free or reduced museum passes and other special programs.

As a longtime member of the American Yacht Club, Betty cherished the beauty and serenity of the Merrimac River. She could often be found sitting on the porch with a good book or chatting with friends.

Always supportive of her husband’s enthusiasms, Betty was a true partner during Al’s runs for Newburyport City Council and Mayor. She also supported his love of flying and sailing, even though she preferred keeping her own feet on the ground.

Stricken by cancer, she braved her diagnosis in the same way she lived her life, with unparalleled dignity, grace, and strength; love of her family and friends; putting those she loved first; and enjoyment of the everyday moments that made up her life that she cherished so much.

The special memories she shared will always be treasured by her children, Nadine Lavender of Chicopee, MA, Roy Lavender and wife Marian of Newburyport; and Sharyn Conners of Brisbane, Australia; two siblings, Debby Wyskiel and husband David of Meriden, CT and Kathy MacKenzie of Waltham, MA; a granddaughter, Brooklyn Conners; two nieces, Rebecca Wyskiel of Baltimore, MD and Heather Sita and husband James of Wolcott, CT, along with extended family and many dear friends.

Visiting hours will be held on Monday, September 8, 2025 from 3 P.M. to 7 P.M. at Elliott, Woodworth & Rogers Family Funeral Home, 35 Green Street, Newburyport, MA. A Funeral Service will be held Tuesday morning at 11 A.M. at Central Congregational Church, 14 Titcomb Street, Newburyport, followed by a Graveside Service at Oak Hill Cemetery where Betty will be laid to eternal rest beside her beloved husband, Al.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Betty Lavender can be made to Our Neighbors Table, P. O. Box 592, Amesbury, MA 01913 or the American Yacht Club, 115R Water Street, Newburyport, MA 01950.