Bette Lou Kelsey

Bette Lou (Comrie) Kelsey, 92, of Newington, died peacefully on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025, in the comfort of her daughter's home, where she lived for the past several years. For 63 years of marriage, she was the beloved wife of the late James D. Kelsey, who died in 2020. Bette Lou was born in Syracuse, NY, and was the daughter of the late James P. and Mary (Sterns) Comrie. She resided in New York, Ohio, Cheshire and North Carolina before moving back to Connecticut. Bette Lou was formerly employed by the Chesprocott Health District in Cheshire. She had a passion for gardening, spending countless hours tending to her flowers, a source of beauty for family and neighbors. Bette Lou stitched together many colorful quilts that became cherished gifts for family and friends, reflecting her patience, creativity and love.
A loving and devoted mother, grandmother and great grandmother, she leaves her daughter and son-in-law Liz and Paul Palaia of Newington, with whom she made her home, and her daughter-in-law Anne Charles Kelsey of Tyner, NC; grandchildren Anthony Palaia, Dominic Palaia and his fiancée Maddy Mangiafico, Hannah, Emma and Freya Kelsey; and two great grandchildren Emily and Noor. She also leaves a brother James Comrie and his wife Thelma of Murrieta, CA; several nieces and nephews; and her dear friend Phemie Serpliss of Newington. She was predeceased by her son Peter H. Kelsey and her sister and brother-in-law Mary and Richard Warner.
Her life will be celebrated privately.