STAMFORD, Vt. —  Elizabeth R. Vadnais, known lovingly as “Betty,” passed away peacefully on August 1, 2025, at the age of 99. Born on May 31, 1926, in North Adams, Massachusetts, she was the cherished daughter of Katherine Witto and John Ross.

After graduating from Becker Junior College, Betty built a remarkable life rooted in love, faith, and service to others. She married the love of her life, Lawrence Vadnais, Jr., with whom she shared 66 years of marriage before his passing on February 9, 2017. Together, they created a legacy of both family and purpose.

Betty and Lawrence co-founded the Center for Resourceful Living at North Adams State College, a groundbreaking effort to educate new generations about the dangers of a changing climate and food insecurity. Long before these issues were widely recognized, Betty championed stewardship of the earth, sustainable living, and the importance of community cooperation.

A devoted member of the Stamford, Vermont, Community Church, Betty lived her faith daily through kindness, generosity, and action. She was an early advocate for food co-ops, believing deeply in the power of neighbors supporting neighbors.

Betty’s joys were simple but deeply meaningful. She delighted in her gardens, where she nurtured life with patience and care. She worked tirelessly to protect trees, honoring the beauty and balance of nature. And in her kitchen, she baked breads that warmed not only the body but also the soul, filling her home with the comforting aroma of love and tradition.

Those who knew Betty will remember her not only for her wisdom and quiet strength but also for the way she inspired others to live more thoughtfully, more gently, and with greater compassion for the world around them.

Betty is predeceased by her husband of 66 years Lawrence H. Vadnais and a daughter Martha Jean Vadnais. Betty is survived by her children Andrew Vadnais, Christopher Vadnais, and Catherine Skype, who carry forward her love, values, and spirit. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren, all of whom were blessed by her boundless love and will continue to honor her through the lives they lead.

Betty’s spirit will live on in every tree she sought to protect, every loaf of bread shared in love, and every act of kindness carried forward by those who were blessed to know her.

A memorial service will be held at Stamford Community Church in Stamford Vt on October 25th at 2:00 pm. To add to the Book of Memories, please visit www.flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com