Elizabeth "Betsy" Mitchell Savage, 86, of Amherst, NH passed peacefully on Thursday, November 20, 2025 surrounded by the love that defined her life. She was an extraordinary wife, mother, grandmother (Nanna), sister, and friend, whose warmth, kindness, and sharp wit touched everyone who was fortunate enough to know her.

Born and raised in Bangor, ME, Betsy was the beloved youngest daughter of the late Elizabeth (Palmer) and James Mitchell. Bangor was also where she met the love of her life and husband of 66 years, Richard Savage.

Betsy and Richard settled in Acton, MA where they raised their family. Her home and heart were always open and she welcomed everyone with hugs and humor. Neighbors quickly became friends and friends became like family.

For many years, Betsy worked as a criminal clerk at the courthouse in Concord, MA. She loved her work there and charmed her coworkers and the public with her humor. She also worked for Vaillancourt Catering and was a rental agent for B & W Realty. When not working or raising her family, Betsy volunteered her time to help those in need in the community. She delivered meals through Meals on Wheels and made daily visits to the elderly.

In 1999, she and Richard retired to their dream home in North Conway, NH.  A lover of animals, Betsy cherished many pets throughout her life. In their new home, her kindness also extended to wild animals. She delighted in watching the foxes in the yard. She named each one and spoiled them with treats. Knowing her yard was a safe space, foxes brought their kits to meet her and visited year after year.

In 2014, Betsy and Richard moved to Amherst, NH to be closer to their children. They quickly filled the new home with love and treasured memories. Betsy loved being closer to family and marveled at the way their furniture fit perfectly into the new space, as if it was made for them.

Betsy shone the brightest when surrounded by the beautiful family she created. She made every day feel like a unique exciting adventure full of joy, humor, and hijinks. The definition of a child at heart, she could always find fun in the mundane. Whether making up silly stories to amuse her grandchildren, crocheting beautiful gifts, or painting colorful abstract flowers, Betsy sparkled with creativity. A competitive spirit, she loved games of all kinds. When she'd win (which was often), she would dance around the room declaring herself the star of the day. But to those who loved her, she was the star of every day.

She leaves behind a legacy of love carried on by her husband Richard Savage; her children, Kelley Garufi and her husband Michael and James Savage and his wife Karen; her grandchildren Jeremy, Lauren and Rachael; and her twin brother James Mitchell. As well as many other loved ones too numerous to name. She was predeceased by her dear sisters Ann Wood, Mary Graffam, and Sally Ricker, whom she now rejoins with open arms.

The family will be holding a private ceremony to lay Betsy to rest at Meadowview Cemetery in Amherst, NH. A celebration of life will be held in early 2026.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you hold your loved ones close and cherish happy memories.