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Mary Garrison Obituary
February 20, 1942 - April 8, 2025
Mary Elizabeth "Betsy" Garrison, 83, passed away on April 8, 2025, in Richmond, VA, a few weeks after having been diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic cancer. Betsy was born in Norfolk, VA to Thelma Herring Grant and Edward Thomas Grant. Betsy lived a life defined by her dedication to faith, education, service, and a deep appreciation for learning and the arts. Her laugh and smile were contagious and heartwarming.
Betsy grew up in Norfolk, VA, and earned a degree from Longwood College. She began her career as an elementary school teacher in Washington, D.C. Betsy and her husband, John Garrison, moved to San Francisco, where she worked in Human Resources for the Federal Reserve Bank. Her career with the Federal Reserve continued after relocating to Richmond, VA, until her retirement. Betsy then served as Director of Human Resources for the Richmond YMCA until her second retirement.
A woman of faith, Betsy was an active member of Reveille United Methodist Church for many years. She also participated in the God Within study group at All Saints Episcopal Church, where she formed meaningful connections through spiritual discussions.
Her passion for learning led her to engage in continuing education through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute and lively book group discussions. Betsy's appreciation for the arts shone through her enthusiasm for ballet and symphony performances.
In Richmond, Betsy married William "Bill" Burton, who predeceased her in 2020. She is survived by her cherished "niece," Janelle Reed and her children, Noah Stone and Elowyn Reed; Bill's children, Walter Scott Burton II, Mary Caroline Burton, and Joel Christopher Burton; and Bill's grandchildren, Walter Scott Burton III, Virginia Christine Burton, and Audrey Caroline Conner; and her niece, Robin Garrison.
Betsy's warmth, curiosity, and generosity touched countless lives. During her final weeks, Betsy was embraced and cared for by close friends, family, and Reveille members, including Associate Pastor Stephen Coleman. In lieu of flowers and to honor Betsy's life, the family suggests donations to Reveille United Methodist Church Congregational Care Fund.
A celebration of Betsy's life will be held at The Garth at Reveille United Methodist Church on Sunday, June 29th at 11:30 a.m.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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