Elizabeth Gibson Damon passed away peacefully on September 7, 2024. Betty was born in Brighton to the proud Scotsman David Gibson and Sarah (Wighton) Gibson on July 21, 1928. She graduated from Wheelock College and taught second grade. As a bridesmaid of a close Wheelock friend, she met and fell in love with groomsman and FBI Agent William Haynes Damon of Concord. Within a year of their introduction, they married in 1950 and shared a life until Bill’s passing in 1992. Together, they raised their six children on Alcott Road, where she lived for 63 years.
Betty loved Concord and being part of its history. She quickly made lifelong friends and became involved in her neighborhood and community. Bill and Betty were one of the founding families of Nashawtuc Country Club, enjoying their membership for many years. Betty joined the Emerson Hospital Women’s Auxiliary and volunteered to be a Boy Scout den mother. Betty was an avid reader. Until a month before her death, Betty could always be found reading a book or newspaper. She organized neighborhood coffees where she enjoyed giving book reviews of New York Times bestsellers. Her passion for books and history, combined with a gregarious personality, led her to become a tour guide for more than 30 years at Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House, where she proudly took on the role of “Marmee” for special events, school visits, and Christmas tours. Donning a hoop skirt and cap, Marmee would capture the hearts of tourists and share the Alcott story.
Betty had a strong faith and was active in the Episcopal Church for many years; however, she joined the West Concord Union Church, where she gave countless hours of service to the congregation.
Betty was so many things: An utterly devoted wife to Bill; a “wonderful mom” to her six children and their spouses; a Grammie to 11 who always took the time to sing “‘A’ — You’re Adorable” at bedtime; and a delighted great grandmother “GG” to nine. An avid storyteller, she told everyone she was born with “the gift of gab” and will be greatly missed by many in the community.
Betty was predeceased by her husband, William H. Damon, daughter Elizabeth “Betsy” Joan Damon, dear brother, David Andrew Gibson, and his wife, Gail Wilson Gibson. Betty was a loving mother to her children Richard Gibson Damon and wife Debbie, David Kennan Damon, Joan Damon Bero and husband Bret, Barbara Damon Marinaccio and husband Brett, and Cynthia Damon Noonan. She was doting “Wonderful Auntie Bet” to nieces Christine Gibson Price, Eleanor Gibson Garvey, and Jennifer Gibson Kautz.
Visiting hours will be held from 4 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, September 11, at Concord Funeral Home. A celebration of Betty’s life will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, September 12, at West Concord Union Church, 1317 Main Street.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to give to Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House, 399 Lexington Road, Concord, MA 01742, or to West Concord Union Church, 1317 Main Street, Concord, MA 01742.
