Elizabeth Ann Neubauer

1954 - 2025

Elizabeth Ann Neubauer

August 1, 1954 - July 3, 2025

Elizabeth Ann Neubauer (Heisler, Hunt), known to many as Bette, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on August 1, 1954 in New Jersey, Bette lived a life defined by compassion, resilience and service to others. She was a devoted mother, a loyal sister and a tireless advocate for her community.

Bette will be remembered most for her love and devotion to her sons, August and Brendan. On any given day, she could be found at a track or cross-country meet, a soccer game or enthusiastically shuttling her boys and their friends between events. As they grew, she supported any endeavor their hearts wanted to follow; personally, professionally and spiritually with unwavering love and support. No matter how free-spirited or adventurous her sons could be, she understood their journeys would not always be a straight path and was there to offer any guidance they needed. As Bette's family expanded, she took on the role of "Bebe" to her two grandchildren. She embraced the opportunity to impart wisdom, spirituality and compassion. Her dedication and constant presence have left a lasting impact on her sons, their friends and her grandchildren.

Bette spent more than 20 years working at the Farm Basket in Lynchburg, where she was not only a dedicated employee, but a friendly face to countless customers and colleagues. Bette will also be remembered as a passionate advocate in the fight against addiction in Central Virginia. Drawing from her own journey, she became an empathetic beacon of hope and healing for many. She served as a peer recovery specialist and was actively involved in numerous organizations, including: The Community Opioid Epidemic Coalition, Blue Ridge Reentry Council, Narcotics Anonymous, Central Virginia Addiction Recovery Resource Coalition, The Peer Collective and as a reentry-program volunteer at local jails, among others.

Bette's commitment to recovery work was not just professional - it was deeply personal. She believed in second chances, in the power of community and in the strength of the human spirit. Her voice, laughter and grace will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her sister, Holly Powell; sons, August J. Heisler IV and Brendan Heisler; stepson, Robert Hunt; daughter-in-law, Ashley Heisler; and grandchildren, Aria and Caden Heisler. Her family, friends and the many lives she touched through her advocacy will carry her memory forward with endless love and gratitude.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Roads to Recovery, Inc. in her honor. Celebration details will be shared at a later time.