Tribute Wall
Loading...
J
Joy Lowenthal posted a condolence
Friday, October 4, 2024
I was unable to attend Betsye's service and also been away since which meant the card I sent out 2 weeks ago was returned and I got today! Dear Family of Betsye, My Memories of Betsye ar many and all of them great! She was my Heroin, advisor, thoughtful collaborator, supported me, gave much hope to my son Ben, and most recently in Ballston Spa my comforter!! She is greatly missed!!! May your treasury of happiest adventures with her (and John) support and lift you beyond grief but not beyond tears!
I will be passing on the life learnings she gave me and continue her memory through living her wisdom!
Thanks for sharing her!! Peace and Love, Joy Lowenthal
C
Constance Seifert uploaded photo(s)
Friday, October 4, 2024
/public-file/3602/Ultra/cb84066f-7cfb-4a14-b9fb-a0b2773b14b5.jpg
Betsye was my mother hen right from the get-go. I told her that during the clergy session of Annual Conference this year. I am so glad that I did. We were sitting off to one side – with our matching walkers! LOL
Betsye and Janet Gibbs and Elizabeth Salisbury took me to my first Women’s Conference – somewhere in the Poconos. It was an awesome event! I think Carter Heyward was one of the keynoters.
Betsye had my back during more than one rough stretch. She was perturbed when I chose to stay in Western NY instead of returning to NNY after seminary – but eventually, I was forgiven.
We stood together as we lost our case before the Judicial Council. I don’t remember the details, only that we were united in our passion for justice.
When she was in Pulaski, the parsonage was my pit stop on trips home to Edwards from Vernon, NY. My sister Becky and I once drove from a wedding reception in Syracuse to Pulaski. This was before GPS or cell phones. We were good and truly lost. We finally stopped at a motel around 1 a.m. only to find a dead mouse on the bed. Becky slept in the room. I slept in the car. I was singing at Betsye’s worship service the next morning. Turns out that we were less than 5 miles from the church. I tried to write a short story about that adventure: “The Dead Mouse Motel.” But it remains unfinished.
Most of the outspokenness and courage I have today is thanks to her example. We had very different theologies but united in our mission to reveal and share God’s love. We had many lively and stimulating theological discussions! She was a tough questioner when I first encountered her on DCOM - along with the also tough Bruce Lee-Clark. I survived. Very glad that part is behind me. When I got the news of Betsye’s death, I was still reeling in shock from the death of my younger sister, Andrea. She died unexpectedly on 09/06/2024. In both cases, I thank God that I had the opportunity to tell them what a difference they made in my life – and thank them.
My last in-person visit was in Saratoga Springs – met Betsye for a chat before she had to usher for the opera – at least I think it was the opera. I was coming home from a conference in Cape Cod and we had a lovely visit on a beautiful summer day in July – but can’t remember which year.
I cannot make the service in Clifton Park. But oh, the memories I have. Some of which I cannot reveal. They were created in the days when Pastors’ School was held at Watson Homestead. Betsye would camp out in the parking lot – sometimes using my room during the day for a nap. Such a wonder-full colleague and friend and mentor – once I got over being intimidated and realized that boundless love of God was at the heart of all she shared.
She was at the Oneida Hospital with me the night my mother died. I can still feel her hug – and her comfort. Betsye and I had been playing cards with my Mom the day before.
Betsye and I spent a lot of time together at the ClergyWomen’s gathering in Chicago – can’t remember that year either. We took a trolley ride tour of the city, had tea at the Russian Tearoom and she took me on the El to visit the Art Museum before we had to catch our train. Thank you, Betsye! Rest in peace and rise in glory! Rev. Connie Seifert, Corning, NY
C
Christina Richards posted a condolence
Friday, September 27, 2024
My sons and I were walking in Balston Spa last Sunday. As we walked past the United Methodist Church I read ther sign board and noticed that Betsey's name was listed as their minister. During the time my husband, Ted Richards, served in the North-Central Conference, I became acquainted with Betsey by name as a collegue Ted would work with in various conference committees. And so I was tickled to see a name on the signboard that I actually recognized! Sadly, this morning I read that she had passed away just days before my visit. She was a successful poineer of women in ministry for which you (and we) can be proud of her accomplishment!
Tina Richards
B
Bruce Lee-Clark posted a condolence
Thursday, September 26, 2024
I first met Betsye in 1970 at the NNY Annual Conference in Malone, NY. It was an unforgettable experience in that she complained that the Conference hadn't identified young adult lay members as the previous session had required. And so I was thrust into a role that I wasn't expecting. The reminder of our relationship continued for 50 years in much the same way. As a colleague, as a fellow Bolio practitioner, as a surprise pew mate in Williamstown, MA, pot-retirement. Betsye was always loving, passionate, and surprising, and I will miss her presence in the world.
G
Gail Rolando lit a candle
Wednesday, September 25, 2024
//s3.amazonaws.com/skins.funeraltechweb.com/tribute-gestures/v2/candles/material_candle_gold.jpg
I am so sad to hear of Betsye's passing. She was there for me when I lost my little girl in 1999, and again in 2012 and 2013 when I lost first my mother in law then my husband at that time. She was a wonderful, beautiful spirit full of compassion and humor. She will be forever missed.
N
Nancy Zlomek posted a condolence
Wednesday, September 25, 2024
Betsye and John were such a blessing to Oneida First Methodist Church. The energy, compassion and love shared by both was unmeasurable. Thank you to all of the Mowry Family for their gift to the community. Nancy Zlomek and Family
K
Karen Clemons posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 24, 2024
I remember well when Betsye, John and the kids were at Great Bend, NY. I babysat for Gussie as she was known then, Shawn and Alyssa. We had many great times together and she was a wonderful pastor at Great Bend and Champion who was sorely missed when they left. Great memories!!
Karen Clemons
C
Carol Kennedy posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 24, 2024
I am so saddened to read of Betsye's passing. She and John were some of my favorite people in the world. Betsye was present for me during the worst time in my life and never wavered in her emotional support and guiding wisdom, always adding a touch of humor to lighten the mood. I knew whenever I saw her that we would have an interesting and enlightening conversation about all aspects of life, love, travel, and politics, among other things. I was known as "John's girlfriend" in a lighthearted way we joked about. I will miss both of them and especially my dear friend Betsye and thank them for adding depth to my life. I wish her family the best memories to hold and cherish!
P
Pastor Nancy L. Russell posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 24, 2024
Dear Family of Betsey, I met her a number of years ago and found her to be an effervescent and spirited faithful disciple/pastor with God's flock. My husband and I extend our prayer and sympathy to all of you. We extend our care and prayer to Ballston Spa UMC as well. May you all find God's comfort and healing presence. May God's love be felt. Amen. Pastors Nancy and Larry Russell
Adirondack/Albany District
m
marianne kinne posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 24, 2024
So very sorry for your loss...Betsye was an amazing caring person and will be truly missed...
T
Terry & Sandra Moulton posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 24, 2024
Dear Jacquil, Shawn and Alyssa,
We are very sorry for your loss of your Mother! We have so many good memories of the time we had with your family! We will never forget!
Love you all,
Sandy & Terry Moulton
H
Heidi Chamberlain posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 24, 2024
Betsye was the strongest woman I have ever known… and the kindest. She supported and coached me as I began my ministry and constantly reminded me that I could and would answer this calling because I had something within me unique and valuable that God had created me to share. She was amazing and fierce, loyal and loving, and I will miss her. Well done warrior woman! I am blessed to have counted you as my friend and colleague. Shalom
K
Kay Curtin posted a condolence
Monday, September 23, 2024
Betsye Mowry was one of the most unique individuals I’ve ever known. Intimidating, unflinching in her beliefs, as strong as any woman I’ve ever known and not afraid to spar with anyone if she felt someone was being wronged. She was that friend we all would hope to have by our side when times are tough. And if you were truly fortunate, you had the chance to get to know that old softie that she tried so hard to keep hidden! Betsye was my dear friend and it’s difficult to think of a world without her in it. What will I miss about her? Everything! Rest easy, my friend and thank you for being you!
R
Rev. Susan Walters posted a condolence
Monday, September 23, 2024
I am also a United Methodist clergywoman, now retired. I was diagnosed with breast cancer, and received the most uplifting card from Betsye. It helped!
E
The family of Rev. Elizabeth Foster Mowry uploaded a photo
Monday, September 23, 2024
/tribute-images/4705/Ultra/Rev-Elizabeth-Mowry.jpg
Please wait
Share Your Memory of
Rev. Elizabeth
Be the first to upload a memory!
