Elizabeth (Betty) Rose Freese (87) passed away on July 24, 2026 at The Club Health and Rehabilitation Center in The Villages, FL. Betty was born on February 13, 1939 in Hartford, CT to John and Rose Szmyd. She was predeceased by her husband Kenneth Freese in 2023. She is survived by her two daughters: Jacqueline Rose Calhoun-Meese and Rhonda Lynn Freese, both of Summerfield, FL and several cousins and relatives in Connecticut. She was an only child and graduated from high school in Newington, CT. She was proud to have been a majorette turling her baton. Her parents offered for her to go to college, but Betty wanted her parents to put the money toward a new house. Because Betty was intelligent, she secured many jobs easily especially at major insurance firms in the insurance capital of the world “Hartford, CT”. It was evident that Betty had a very strong work ethic. After marrying the love of her life, Kenneth Freese, at the age of 21; she and her husband moved to New Britain, CT where both her daughters, Jacqueline and Rhonda were born.

Shortly thereafter, the family moved to Southington, CT. Betty began working for the West Hartford School system and was highly valued by her boss who later recommended her to work for the Avon Public School system closer to home as the family had built a new home in North Canton, CT. This was a promotion for Betty. Betty enjoyed crocheting ponchos, winter gloves and afghans for her daughters. Since her husband had been a Marine, Betty decorated their home in Canton with patriotic red, white and blue colors. Betty enjoyed many outdoor activities such as gardening, raking leaves, swimming in the family pool, cookouts with family. She also loved to go to Vermont in the winter to go cross country skiing and stay at bed and breakfast inns. She also took some trips overseas to Paris, France, French Riviera and Italy. Betty loved to participate in yoga, aerobics and believed in staying fit. She was very conscious of her diet and eating healthy. Ironically, she was on no medications until two months before her death.

After moving to Florida to enjoy her retirement, Betty was very active in many of Del Webb Golf and Country Club groups such as Galavanting Girls, Bible Study, Garden Club and the Miata Club. Betty also volunteered outside of Del Webb community and was involved in work for the local Food Bank, Thrift stores affiliated with her church, the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic church. Before Betty passed, she talked a lot about what a great childhood and life she had with her daughters. She repeatedly stated she was lucky to have met such a great husband and shared many memories of her happy life. She not once mentioned any regrets and was a very grateful person. Because of her example, her daughters learned to be independent with strong work ethics and values.

There will be a mass and celebration of life service in Florida and Connecticut at a future date that will be announced. On behalf of Betty, she would want donations to local food banks and thrift stores to help the local community in which she lived. Arrangements entrusted with BALDWIN BROTHERS Funeral & Cremation Society-Spanish Springs, 352-430-1449. Sentiments are encouraged at www.baldwincremation.com.