Betty Jane Michaels

1925 - 2016

Betty Jane (BJ) Hall Michaels of East Orleans, MA and Woodbury, CT passed away peacefully on Monday, February 22, 2016 at Regional Hospice in Danbury, CT. She was the wife of the late Richard (Dick) W. Michaels. BJ was born in Fulton, NY on March 24, 1925. She attended the Immaculate High School in Watertown, NY and Becker College in Worcester, MA. Upon graduating from college, she moved to New York City to live at the Barbizon Hotel for Women and worked for five years as a model for the famous designer, Sophie Gimbel, at Saks Fifth Avenue. BJ exuded warmth, kindness, and love every day of her life. She was involved with the Junior League of Greater Waterbury, CT for many years and volunteered throughout Waterbury and Woodbury for numerous worthy causes. BJ enjoyed playing golf and tennis and especially loved spending time at their home in East Orleans, MA with her husband, five children, grandchildren, and frequent visitors. BJ looked forward to Cape Cod summers and busy Naples, FL winters filled with family and friends. BJ is survived by four daughters and one son: Dale Michaels Wade (Peter) of Eastham, MA, Patti Michaels Gramse (Reed) of Cape Elizabeth, ME, Karen Michaels of Waterbury, CT, Jyll Michaels of Middlebury, CT, and Richard H. Michaels and Laurie of Woodbury, CT; nine grandchildren and one great grandchild. A memorial service was held in Woodbury, CT. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Regional Hospice of Danbury: regionalhospicect.org/about/donate; or to the Alzheimer's Association:alz.org/join_the_cause_donate.asp.