Elizabeth (Betsy) H. Edwards

Betsy was born on December 21, 1928, in Chicago, Illinois, to Elizabeth Sifers and George Phillips Hollingbery. Raised in Illinois, she and her family were active in the Glencoe Union Church, instilling in her a strong sense of community and service from a young age. She attended Central School Elementary in Glencoe, IL and New Trier High School, Winnetka, IL where she developed a lifelong love of learning and the arts. Betsy pursued her passion for art history at Pine Manor Junior College, Boston, MA, and the University of Kansas, earning a BA in Art History. During her college years, she was an active member of the Pi Beta Phi Sorority, forming friendships that would last a lifetime. After graduation, she began her career at “Living for Young Homemakers” magazine, where she applied her talents and creativity. In 1953, Betsy married Roy S. Edwards, Jr. from Glencoe, IL and together they embarked on a journey that took them from Chicago, IL, to San Marino CA, in 1955, then to Glencoe, IL from 1964 to 1977, back to San Marino, CA from 1977 to 1986 when Betsy and Roy retired in Santa Barbara, CA. Betsy was a dedicated volunteer, generously giving her time and energy to numerous community projects. She was actively involved in the PTA, The Art Institute of Chicago, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts Boards, Junior League, YMCA Board of Northbrook, Little House of Glencoe Board, Historical Society of Santa Barbara, Music Academy of the West, Friends of the Santa Barbara Public Library, SBCC, SBMA and many more. Her commitment to service and her ability to bring people together made a lasting impact on her communities. She was a loving and devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, and friend. Her family and friends remember her for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering support. She is survived by her three children, Holly Anne Edwards, John Samuel Edwards III, and Mary Elizabeth Edwards and two grandchildren, Elizabeth Sophie Edwards and Harrison Roy Edwards, her sister Debby Niethammer Roth,16 nieces and nephews; and many dear friends. Her achievements on the golf course brought her great joy and were a source of pride for her family. A testament to her skill and dedication to the sport she loved. Betsy was particularly proud of her ten holes-in-one!! Betsy will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband, Roy, at Graceland Cemetery in Chicago, IL. Her legacy of love, service, and community will continue to inspire all who knew her. Donations can be made to Casa Dorinda Scholarship Fund and Santa Barbara City College Scholarship fund in her name.

Elizabeth (Betsy) H. Edwards

December 21, 1928 - January 23, 2025