Elizabeth “Betty” Balchus, 69, formerly of Killingworth, passed away June 3 with her husband John of 47 years by her side. Betty was born to Alexander and Carolyn (Kelsey) Szirbik on Sept. 22, 1950, and graduated from Amity Regional High School. She met and married John Balchus on Aug. 4, 1973.

Betty was a weaver, poet, self-taught musician, played the organ, loved to sing, and sported a quick wit! John affectionately refers to his late wife as being a “strong-willed person,” which helped her through her many difficulties after her accident. She will be most affectionately remembered for how she greeted people, “You Make My Day!” and she meant it. So in Betty’s memory, take the opportunity to make someone’s day!

Betty leaves behind husband John, a sister, Sandy LaItalian, a brother, Shawn Szirbik (Deb), and several nieces and nephews.

A visitation was held at Saint Lawrence Catholic Church, 7 Hemlock Rd. in Killingworth on June 8. A Mass of Christian burial was held on June 9 at Saint Lawrence, followed by Interment in the Evergreen Cemetery in Killingworth. In her memory donations may be made to the Traumatic Brain Injury Association. To share a memory or express a condolence, please visit www.rwwfh.com. Arrangements are by the Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home, in Centerbrook.