Waterford –- Elizabeth "Betsy" Keenan Lord, 77, beloved wife of devoted husband, Richard "Dick" Lord, died peacefully at Greentree Manor on Jan. 1, 2019 after suffering a long struggle with Alzheimer's.

Born in New London on November 12, 1941, she was one of five children of the late William and Dora Keenan. Betsy attended New London High School and was a long-time resident of both Waterford and East Lyme, living along the Niantic River. After retiring from a successful career in real estate, she and Dick lived in Florida for several years enjoying travel and an active lifestyle together. She was known for her wonderful sense of humor, her hospitality, her love of football, and as a great card player. She was an energetic volunteer at Lawrence and Memorial Hospital. Most notable was her love of clowning, puppetry and balloon art. She was fondly known by many as P. Nutts the town clown. She also volunteered in local hospitals as a clown named Endorphin Annie.

In addition to her husband Dick, she is survived by her sisters Patricia Kuepper of Arizona; Nancy and her husband Albert Swansen of Waterford; Mary Lou and her husband James Beebe of New London. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sister, Kathleen Keenan of Hartford, Conn.

She leaves behind her loving children Dorothy and husband Keith Ferguson of Niantic; Jeffrey Lord and wife Lisa Lord of Waterford; Kathryn and husband Vincent Falcione of Ipswich, Mass. Cherishing her memory are her eight grandchildren Jennifer Lord, Jessica Lord Serigomi, Michelle Lord Murphy, Samantha Lord, Nicholas and Christopher Falcione, Tyler and Jayson Ferguson; and her two great granddaughters, Molly and Sophie Anglim.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11 a.m. on Jan. 7, 2019 at First Baptist Church of Waterford, 105 Rope Ferry Road, Waterford. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the Alzheimer's Association (actalz.org). Condolences may be shared on Betsy's memorial page at www.neilanfuneralhome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Day from Jan. 4 to Jan. 6, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for Elizabeth Lord

Sponsored by Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home - New London.

10 Entries

Millie Tolley

January 9, 2019

Dear Dottie, Keith, Tyler and Jayson,

We continue to pray for comfort and blessing as you grieve the loss of your amazing mom, and grandmom! Having attended her memorial service, and hearing a tiny portion of her incredibly impactful story, it is so clear what a wonderful mom, and grandmom you had on this earth!

Dottie, I treasure your faithfulness in being such a doting daughter and living your life for Jesus, as His true servant in all things. You and Keith are an inspiration to all of us, and you made your mom proud, I am sure!

Truly, your mom's memorial service was so touching, so engaging and funny, and the love of your whole family for your mom was such a blessing to behold. All of this made me smile deep in my heart. My goodness, your mom will be so missed!

We are especially also praying for your dad at this time, and for the grandchildren who are taking it so hard.

Sincerely, Millie Tolley, also for Keith who was not able to attend.

Patricia Kuepper

January 8, 2019

I'll always remember my sister, Betsy, in the pink and white clown outfit my mother made for her. It lasted for years and as a few of my children wore it and I passed it on to another family. I believe it started her on being P. Nutts in later life. She was a joy.

Mary Lee Brown

January 8, 2019

Dottie, Keith and boys,

The wonderful testimonies concerning your Mom clearly states that she was an awesome lady to behold. You are so blessed with so many beautiful memories. With Jesus and those memories you will have much joy in the years to come.

You have our deepest sympathy,

Mary Lee & Family

The Wondrous Nature Bouquet - BASKET INCLUDED

a loved one

Sent Flowers

Doreen Arnold

January 6, 2019

So sorry for your loss..Roger & I have memories of fun times with Betsy and Dick at the Manns...May she RIP

January 6, 2019

So very sorry for your loss..Roger & I had many memories of times with Betsy & Dick at the Manns.. may she RIP

Bruce Elam

January 6, 2019

So very sorry for you loss. Wendy and I are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.

William & Susan Swansen

January 6, 2019

Aunt Betsy, you were a bright light that brought joy to many. We'll remember your passion for life, love of family, great humor and kindness. We're comforted knowing that you're in the hands of the Lord.

Esther Williams

January 6, 2019

I remember all the good times so many years ago. God bless you Friend on your journey and God give strength to you Dick and your family.

Debbie Lee

January 6, 2019

May You Enjoy Your Fond Memories and Cherish Your Love.God Bless You All in Your Most Difficult Day's Ahead.

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