Ellen W. Bezanson

1946 - 2024

Waterford - Ellen W. Bezanson, 78, of Waterford, passed away unexpectedly after a brief illness June 17, 2024. She was born March 24, 1946, in New London, to the late Frederick J. and Katherine Gerhard Williams. She was married to Edwin C. Bezanson for 48 wonderful years until his death in 2018.

After graduating from New London High School in 1964, Ellen continued her education at Mitchell College and the University of Bridgeport. Upon completion of her degrees, Ellen taught English and Language Arts at East Lyme Middle School for 30 years. After her retirement in 2001, Ellen frequently served as a substitute teacher at East Lyme High School.

Throughout the years, Ellen had many hobbies and interests that she enjoyed alongside family and with cherished friends. In addition to her love for sewing, quilting and gardening, Ellen was an avid traveler with a passion for collecting antiques. In retirement, Ellen happily spent her time attending antique tractor shows throughout the country where she assisted her husband in their one-of-a-kind t-shirt business. Without question, Ellen always looked forward to lunch dates with friends, rides in her convertible, and spending quality time with her four grandchildren and cat.

Ellen is survived by her two sons, Peter (Elizabeth) and Marc (Melissa); and her beloved grandchildren: Brendan, Natalie, Patrick and Myles. Ellen was predeceased by her brother Francis Williams.

Calling hours will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, June 28, at Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home, 48 Grand Street, Niantic. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Ellen W. Bezanson Memorial Scholarship Fund, to be established and awarded to a graduating senior at East Lyme High School (c/o Peter A. Bezanson, 70 Pautipaug Hill Road, Baltic, CT 06330), or in Ellen's name to Zagray Farm Museum (c/o 180 S. Plumb Road, Middletown, CT 06457).