Betsy B. Heefner

Betsy B. Heefner, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, left us on January 6, 2026, at the age of 76. Born in Harrisburg, PA on January 28, 1949, to the late Gerald and Mildred (Sheaffer) Brinton. Betsy's spirit touched the lives of so many throughout her remarkable life.
Betsy dedicated 37 years of her life as a kindergarten teacher at the East Pennsboro Area School District, passionately shaping the minds and hearts of countless children. A proud graduate of Shippensburg State College, she met her soulmate, Joe Heefner, during their college years, and on August 11, 1973, they began a joyful and loving marriage of 52 years. Their love story was an inspiring foundation for their two daughters, Sara (Aaron) Clarke and Anne Heefner, who carry forward Betsy's spirit of kindness and love of public school education.
As an avid reader, Betsy found joy in history and mystery books, newspapers, and her extensive collection of children's literature. This was a reflection of her lifelong dedication to learning and nurturing curiosity. She fondly remembered her trips to Maine through her lighthouse collection, and was known for her snowman collection and "Let it Snow" signs by her family, friends, and colleagues. She delighted in annual trips to Avalon, NJ, where her family, including her beloved sister, Carol (Doug) Allan, and nephews, Dan (Kelly and daughter Emilia) Allan, and Tim Allan created cherished seaside memories together.
A true sports fan, Betsy loved watching and cheering loudly for the community owned Green Bay Packers. She was a member of the Unitarian Church of Harrisburg and their COUCH group, where she fostered connections and found joy in her friendships. Betsy is remembered for her love of puzzles, "easy" sudokus, crossword games, and sending clever GIFs, which brought laughter to her many phone conversations with cousins, family, and friends. She enjoyed playing the piano, sharing music with those around her, and above all else, cherished every moment spent with her granddaughters, Julia and Natalie Clarke.
Betsy's legacy is one of positivity and resilience, always finding a silver lining in any situation. She will be profoundly missed but celebrated for her beautiful spirit and the countless lives she touched along the way.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The New Cumberland Library or The Unitarian Church of Harrisburg.