Betty Lou Walsh

Betty Lou Walsh, 83, was reunited with her beloved husband and went home to be with her Savior on July 10, 2026. She passed away peacefully in her beautiful home in Gallatin, New York, on a perfect summer day, surrounded by the love of her family.

Betty was born on May 9, 1943, in South Portland, Maine, to Henry and Edith Samuelsen.

She attended Fort Hamilton High School in Brooklyn before earning her Master of Science in Physical Education from the University of Bridgeport in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Following graduation, Betty returned to her alma mater to teach Physical Education and Health at Fort Hamilton High School before continuing her teaching career at Port Chester High School in Port Chester, New York.

On October 8, 1966, Betty married the love of her life, Brian Peter Walsh. Together they built a life in Greenwich, Connecticut, where Betty made the selfless decision to leave her teaching career to devote herself to raising their two sons, Steven and Jonathan, and creating a loving home.

In the summer of 1991, Betty and Brian, along with their two sons, relocated to the Walsh family property in Gallatin, New York. There she embraced the country life she loved so much, surrounding herself with nature while continuing to make family the center of her world.

Betty found her greatest joy in the beauty of God’s creation. She loved spending time outdoors and enjoyed golfing, skiing, and simply being surrounded by nature. She was especially known for the breathtaking gardens she lovingly cultivated throughout her property, creating a place of beauty and peace that she delighted in sharing with family and friends. Betty had a gift for hospitality and treasured every opportunity to welcome others into her home.

Her generosity knew no bounds. Throughout her life, she quietly supported many charitable organizations and causes close to her heart, including local animal shelters, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and the ASPCA, among many others. She believed deeply in helping both people and animals, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, kindness, and quiet generosity.

Above all, Betty was a devoted grandmother. To her grandchildren, she wasn’t simply Grandma—she was the fun grandma, always ready with laughter, adventure, and unforgettable memories. The love she poured into their lives will remain in their hearts forever.

Most importantly, Betty placed her faith in Jesus Christ. Her family finds great comfort in knowing that she is at peace in the presence of her Savior, restored and made whole. While she will be deeply missed, her legacy of love, generosity, hospitality, and unwavering kindness will continue to bloom in the lives of all who knew and loved her.

Betty is survived by her two sons, Steven Brian (Kelly) Walsh and Jonathan Peter (Aimee) Walsh; her cherished grandchildren, Henry, Ashton, Braeden, and Emma; her faithful kitty companion, Nahla; her dearly loved sister, Lois Ann Glatzel; her dear cousin, Douglas (Philip) Olsen; numerous nieces and nephews; and countless dear friends whose lives were enriched by her friendship.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Brian Peter Walsh, and by her parents, Henry and Edith Samuelsen.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Betty’s devoted caregiver, Minee, whose love, compassion, patience, and unwavering dedication enriched Betty’s life. Since October 2025, Minee cared for Betty with extraordinary kindness, always treating her with dignity, respect, and grace through every stage of her journey. She became much more than a caregiver- she became a cherished member of the family, and her faithful presence will never be forgotten.

Family and friends are warmly invited to celebrate Betty’s life on Saturday, July 18, 2026. Visitation will be held from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Faith Bible Chapel, 222 Silver Mountain Road, Millerton, New York. A Celebration of Life service will immediately follow at 12:00 pm, officiated by Pastor William Mayhew. Guests are invited to remain afterward for light refreshments and fellowship as we continue sharing memories of Betty. Arrangements have been entrusted to Peck & Peck Funeral Homes, 8063 Route 22, Copake, New York. In accordance with Betty’s wishes, cremation will take place. She will be interred at a later date in Greenwich, Connecticut, where she will be laid to rest with her beloved husband, Brian.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Betty’s memory may be made to the Columbia-Greene Humane Society, 111 Humane Society Road, Hudson, NY 12534, or to Faith Bible Chapel, 222 Silver Mountain Road, Millerton, NY 12546.