Betty W. Purvis

1/14/1932 - 7/12/2025

Niantic - Betty W. Purvis, cherished Niantic resident, passed away peacefully July 12, 2025, at 93. Born Jan. 14, 1932, to Ben and Opal Wise, she graduated from Methodist Hospital School of Nursing in Indianapolis, Ind., in 1952, serving as the cover girl for their catalog and recruiting campaign. On Aug. 27, 1955, she married Lt. Gerald W. Purvis, an Army officer from Lisbon. As an Army spouse, Betty raised four children, relocating to Pennsylvania, Maryland, Germany, Kansas, and Virginia before settling in Niantic upon Gerald's retirement in 1970.

A dedicated nurse at Norwich Hospital, Betty balanced her career with her children's activities. Her community impact began with the East Lyme High School Band Parent Association, where, as the first president, she organized fundraisers like craft sales and a carnival, enabling the band to compete in Vienna, Austria.

Betty participated in converting the Main Street library into the Niantic Children's Museum and was active with the Smith-Harris House, organizing reenactments, leading the Winter Fundraiser, crafting wreaths, and creating the annual Apple Pie Contest. As an original board member of the East Lyme Public Trust Foundation, she helped envision the Niantic Bay Boardwalk, a treasured community landmark, contributing to its planning and fundraising efforts. Her 21 years of service were honored with a plaque at Hole-in-the-Wall Beach in 2016 upon her retirement.

Known as "Betty Cakes," she managed food donations at Care & Share, delivering donated breads and cakes to stock shelves and supplying desserts to the Senior Center and VFW Post 5849 for their roast beef dinners. A Life Member of the Ladies Auxiliary, she supported veterans and advocated for renovations at their Niantic location.

An avid reader, Betty assisted with East Lyme Library book sales and ensured books reached those unable to visit. She also secured donations of new and large-print books for her assisted living facility, keeping residents happy.

Through her years of service, Betty leaves a legacy of volunteerism, advocacy and leadership. Her compassion and generosity have touched countless lives within the community.

She is survived by daughters, Jill Cleaver of Pensacola, Fla., and Joy Timbs (Bill) of Panama City, Fla; son-in-law Michel Bechtold of Alexandria, Va.; ten grandchildren, Megan Boudreaux (Allen), Lindsey Rawlings (Traise), Elizabeth Couture (Joe), Ben Bechtold (Michelle), Marilyn Marencik (Matt), Allie Whitton (Greg), Bryon Timbs (Christen), Riley Timbs, Elton Purvis, and Margaux Massey (Charlie); and five great-grandchildren, Adela, Joey, James, Lily, and Ronan. She was predeceased by her husband in 1986; daughter, Cheryl Bechtold; son, Gerry Purvis, and daughter-in-law, Julie Purvis, of Old Saybrook.

A tribute to Betty will be held during an open house from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, at VFW Post 5849, 39 Columbus Ave., Niantic. Share memories with family at bettywpurvis@gmail.com. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation in Betty's honor to VFW Post 5849 at the above address.

Online condolences may be shared at www.neilanfuneralhome.com