Douglas, Elizabeth

Elizabeth "Betty de Spencer" Douglas, 89 years old, died unexpectedly on Saturday, May 31st at Lawrence Hospital in Bronxville, New York. Betty was born on April 26, 1925 in New Bedford, MA to Antone Lopes and Anna Spencer. Upon turning 18, she left New Bedford, seeking success in New York City. Five years after arrival, she married Jackson Douglas and throughout the years proceeded to have seven children, Noelle, Stewart, Reed, Janelle, Theodora, Lawrence and Lamont. After 7 years in Harlem, N.Y., she moved to the Bronx and used her inexhaustible energy maintaining her household of 9, serving ten years as PTA President, 15 as the Editor of the Parent Press and 25 years as a World Book Encyclopedia Salesperson. In 1974, she moved to Bronxville, New York and later saw the last of her seven children finish college. She then returned to school herself at age 52 and proceeded to earn her bachelors and Masters from Fordham University. She was admired as one of Bronxville's well dressed ladies as her hats and long coats were recognized by many of the business owners in the downtown area. Though she left New Bedford in 1943 she returned every summer for one month so her children could enjoy the rich whaling culture of New Bedford, MA. An experience they have treasured their entire lives. In her later years, Betty enjoyed time with her Senior Organizations and traveling the country visiting her children. Her class, dignity and inner and outer beauty will surely be missed. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jackson Douglas and her daughter Janelle. She is survived by six children, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Calling hours are 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, June 4 at the Fred H. McGrath and Son Funeral Home, Bronxville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 5 at St. Joseph's Church, Bronxville, NY.

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Published by The Journal News on Jun. 3, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Elizabeth Douglas

3 Entries

Milton Crawford

June 5, 2014

My sister will be missed. We must take solace in the fact that in His graciousness the Lord gives and Lord takes away. He has taken Bette away to a better place. May God receive her soul and bless it for all eternity.

Janet Crawford Jackson

June 4, 2014

Aunt Betty will be missed! I have fond memories of the most amazing heels she wore when I was a young girl during her visit to California. Betty is in a better place in the arms of our Lord and resting with husband, daughter, sisters, brother and parents!

June 3, 2014

You have my deepest sympathy for the loss of your beloved mother. May the God of all comfort strengthen your family through this most difficult time. (2 Cor. 1:3-7)

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Funeral services provided by:

Fred H McGrath & Son, Inc. - Bronxville

20 Cedar Street, Bronxville, NY 10708

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