Elizabeth A. Ober

Elizabeth "Betty" Ann Ober (née Gourdeau) passed away peacefully on August 9, 2025, at the age of 98. Born on August 17, 1926, in Salem, Massachusetts, she was the oldest of five children and the daughter of the late Henry Joseph Roch and Elizabeth Agnes (née Shinnick) Gourdeau. She lived a long and beautiful life, devoted to her family, guided by her faith, and committed to helping others.

On July 21, 1945, Betty married the love of her life, Richard Taylor Ober. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and purpose, raising eight children and sharing 54 years of marriage until Richard's passing in 1999. She was also predeceased by her beloved daughter, Jane Alison Ober, in 1995.

She is survived by her children: William Taylor Ober II (Marcia) of Annapolis, MD; Susan Elizabeth Ober of Round Rock, TX; Dr. Beth Anne Ober (Gregory Shenaut) of Davis, CA; Stephen Courtney Ober (Ahmed Yearwood) of Princeton, NJ; Dr. Margaret Southwick Richards (Samuel) of South Kingstown, RI; Richard Charles Ober (Amber) of Leesburg, VA; Amanda Forbes Dukes (Robert) of Orlando, FL; and daughter-in-law Marion Bissell Ober of Exeter, NH; Sister, Gail Jacus of St. Louis, MO. She also leaves 21 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sisters, Jean Larchez, Joan E. Dunn, and her brother, Richard R. Gourdeau.



Betty's life revolved around her family. She embraced her roles as wife, mother, and grandmother wholeheartedly, offering unconditional love and serving as a constant source of positivity and encouragement. In her later years, she lived in Ipswich, Massachusetts, and most recently in South Kingstown, Rhode Island, with her devoted daughter and son-in-law, Margaret and Samuel Richards. Visits from her children and grandchildren were frequent and treasured, each one ending with her signature farewell: "I love you so much, and I'm so proud of you."

She was known for her joyful spirit and her contagious laugh, which could leave her breathless when something truly tickled her. Her home always reflected her warmth, love for bright colors, and sense of whimsy. Whether cooking, entertaining, or simply welcoming guests, Betty infused everything she did with grace and care.

Throughout her life, Betty gave generously of her time and talents. She served as a Cub Scout Den mother, raised funds for the March of Dimes, and worked for many years as secretary of the Bedford Women's Club in Bedford, New Hampshire. She was a passionate supporter of the American Diabetes Association and the American Heart Association.

Her deep Catholic faith was a source of strength and joy. She was an active member of the women's group at St. Rose of Lima in Topsfield, Massachusetts, where she helped organize events to benefit the church. Later, she taught Sunday School at Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal in Hampton, New Hampshire.

Betty loved to travel and cherished reunions at Newfound Lake in Bristol, New Hampshire-her family's beloved summer retreat. She approached each day with gratitude, humor, and a generous heart. Her legacy is one of love, service, and a life well-lived.

Betty's funeral Mass will be celebrated at the Church of Saint Paul, 50 Union St., South Hamilton, on Friday, August 22nd, at 10:30 am. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours at the Campbell Funeral Home, 525 Cabot St., Beverly, on Thursday, August 21st, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Burial will be in Hamilton Cemetery. Contributions may be made in Betty's memory to the animal rescue foundation of your choice. Information, directions, condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com.