Elizabeth Ann “Betty” (Russell) Karis, age 78, of Billerica, formerly of Winchester, passed away on February 25, 2025, lovingly surrounded by her family. She was the beloved wife for 57 years of Thomas P. Karis, Jr.
Born in Boston, Betty was the daughter of the late Kenneth M. and Mary E. (Higgins) Russell. She was raised and educated in Penacook, NH and was a graduate of Penacook High School. She attended nursing school and worked as a medical secretary at Winchester Hospital for over 30 years.
Known for her amazing crafting skills, Betty could always be found sewing, knitting and crafting treasured creations for family and friends. Her family remembered how she would envision and complete handmade baby blankets and gifts just moments after hearing the baby news.
In addition to her husband, Tom, Elizabeth is lovingly survived by her children: Thomas A. Karis, Sr. of Woburn, Beth DeLeo of Oregon and Donna Karis of Billerica. She was the devoted grandmother of TJ Karis and his wife Amanda of Tewksbury, Rose, Deanna and Domenic Karis of Billerica, Devin Mahoney of OR, Gabrielle Guenette and her husband Matt of Wellesley, the late Anthony DeLeo, and is further survived by 6 great-grandchildren and 1great-great-grandchild. She was the dear sister of Fay Davison and her husband Herm of Bradford, NH, Janet Hutchinson of Concord, NH, Ken Russell of Franklin, NH, Stephen Russell and his wife Paula of Penacook, NH, Mary Ellen Guild and her husband Curt of Wilton, NH and was also the cherished aunt of several nieces and nephews.
A Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 12 noon at Wildwood Cemetery, 34 Palmer St., Winchester. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend and are asked to meet at the main gate.