Elizabeth S. McKown, 97, of Northampton passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, October 3, 2024, surrounded by her loving daughters. Elizabeth was born in Northampton on November 24, 1926, the daughter of the late Ozro and Mildred (Strong) Wright. She was raised in Northampton and attended local schools. She went on to earn her Bachelor's of Arts degree at Fitchburg State Teachers College. Following graduation, Betty became a teacher in the Northampton Public Schools. She began her career at South Street School where she taught kindergarten for 28 years. Later, she worked at Bridge Street School for one year and concluded her career at Hill Institute. She retired after 32 years of dedication to the children and families of Northampton. Betty was a lifelong member of the First Churches of Northampton and was very active in the life of the church. She served on many church committees over the years, sang in the church choir, and belonged to the Dorcas Society of First Churches. Betty enjoyed family camping and traveling with her husband and friends. She was a member of the Appalachian Mountain Club, the Green Mountain Club, and The South Side Club. In her retirement, Betty enjoyed bowling, line dancing, family gatherings, and playing Kings on the Corner with her daughters. Most of all, Betty enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. Besides her parents, Betty was predeceased by her husband Kenneth McKown. She is survived by her daughters Jean McMahon and her husband Patrick, Nancy Waters and her husband James, and Marcia Kennick. She also leaves seven grandchildren, Andrea Creighton (Aaron), Heather Williams (Steven), David McMahon, Tim Kennick (Nellie), Jon McMahon (Elisha), Christopher Waters, Steven Kennick (Chelsea) and five great-grandchildren.
Calling hours for Betty will be held on Tuesday, October 8, from 10:00-11:00 am at the First Churches of Northampton, 129 Main St. Northampton, followed by a Memorial service at 11:00. Burial at Bridge Street Cemetery will be private.
Donations in Betty’s memory may be made to the First Churches Organ Fund, 129 Main Street, Northampton or to the Shriners Children’s Hospital, 516 Carew St, Springfield, MA 01104.
The family would like to thank the CDH VNA and Hospice staff, especially Kim, Wendy and Liz for their care and kind support over the past year.