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We just received word of Betsy's passing from her husband, Steve. Here is a copy of his email:
"Some of you may already be aware, if not, I'm sorry to tell you that my dear Betsy passed away on Thursday, 7/23. She finally lost her long and hard battle with cancer. She died peacefully and painlessly at MGH. Thank you for your friendship, love, and caring for her.
Betsy was a lifelong resident of Mill Valley where she and Steve raised their three sons.
Betsy's obituary as published in the Marin Independent Journal on July 31, 2015:
Elizabeth Stiveson Bryant "Betsy" died peacefully on July 23, 2015. She is survived by her heart-broken husband Steve, sons Patrick, Christopher, and Michael, and brother Bill and sister Barbara. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and aunt. She is also mourned by many friends who were deeply touched by her generosity, kindness, and loving spirit. Betsy moved to Mill Valley from Ohio at age 2, and lived there for the rest of her life. She was a graduate of Marin Catholic High School and San Francisco State, and spent many years as a Speech Pathologist. A devout Catholic, she was a tireless volunteer for Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, as well as The Outdoor Art Club, and the Mill Valley Tennis Club.
A Mass and Memorial Celebration was held on September 11th.
In lieu of flowers, contributions to the American Cancer Society and Hospice By the Bay are appreciated.
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Melodie Yoell (Behm)
It was a sad email from Steve Bryant Betsy's wonderful husband. My heart goes out to him and the boys.
So many wonderful memories of our High School days. Many fun times at the Stiveson house with her parents, brother Bill and sister Barbara. Laughing long hours into the night as we listened to Frank Sinatra records, her brothers favorite.
So many good times at school, parties, overnights and all the crazy things crazy high school girls do.
After High School we got together for lunch, often with Sandy Rosso. We still laughed a lot. Do we ever really grow up? I hope not.
Two years ago Betsy got together with Sandy and me for lunch. She wanted as many girls as possible from the class to get together to celebrate turning 70. Quite a few of us went. I now wonder if she knew she was ill then as she really wanted this gathering to happen. Maybe it was her time to say goodbye in her own way.
Sorry I did not know you were so ill, perhaps I could have, in some small way, been there for you. But you had your Steve and your boys and family, and that is everything really.
I wondered why your calls stopped, the emails were no longer coming. Then the last several months, inquiries not responded to. Now I know why. Will miss you and our long catching up chats. Peace to you, Betsy.
Melodie
Barbara Garris (Edwards)
I met Betsy when we were in grammar school going to boring catechism classes at Mt Carmel Church (the old church in the basement) I will always remember her bopping around Mill Valley being a busy busy busy little girl. Rest in peace Betsy!!!
Judith Munch (Blaise)
I am so sad to hear of Betsy's passing. I thought we would see each other again some day - we last talked two years ago - and she invited me to get together with the "girls." I am sorry I never made it back to Marin. I will always hold sweet memories of her mischievious smile and generous spirit. I imagine her free now, in the Light, filled with peace and bliss. Judy
Richard Peterson
This is tragic news about Betsy. I greatly admired her in high school, such a warm, intelligent, and high-spirited girl. For the most part, I was able to stay in touch only occasionally during her early Dominican College days. My heart goes out to her family and friends.
Janice Jansoone (Bury)
It is always so sad to hear the news that we have lost one of our classmates. I will remember Betsy's great sense of humor, beautiful face with that wonderful smile and I loved her outgoing personality. We had so much fun at MC rally's, snow trips and the great unforgettable trip to Europe for 10 weeks with Father Cummins..... long time ago! I always looked forward to seeing Betsy when our class got together for lunch and reunions....she will be missed! But I believe that we will meet again, so until then I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers along with Steve and your family. Love
Joe Behm
To me, the constant in Betsy’s life was her ever-present smile and infectious laugh. It never changed over the years. Whenever we bumped into Betsy and Steve around town her greeting was always the same – warm and joyful.
We first met at Park School in Mill Valley and continued on to Alto School before matriculating to Marin Catholic.
Many of my fondest memories of Betsy include our time together jumping around like banshees cheering our various sports teams to victory – well, sometimes to victory (we did our best, and had a great time anyway).
Because we lived only blocks from each other, I would often drive Betsy to MC – a task shared with Larry Selna. Those who knew Betsy best can understand why it was such a challenge getting to campus on time. No matter how much we complained, she’d just laugh it off.
I will miss that laugh and smiling face. Just look at her pictures and you will see what I mean.
Farewell old friend.
Joe
Becky Friendshuh (Engstrom)
Oh Betsy, such a sweet and fun loving girl! You will be missed!
Dianne Magliulo (Vattuone)
Dear Betsy...Thank you for getting us together for our 70th year...I will never forget you...God Bless!
Love,
Dianne
Nancy Friel (McIntyre)
I will always remember Betsy's vivacious and optimistic spirit and zest for life. We had many laughs and great times, especially our junior year - cheering our beloved Wildcats! Bet she's leading all the Angels in a victory song right now. Betsy, you will not be forgotten. Love, Nancy
Christina Hyatt
Losing a contemporary to death is a shock and a sorrow even when, as in this case, death is a release from the suffering of a long illness. My condolences to Betsy's family and friends who will surly always miss her.