Elizabeth "Betsy" D. (Delafield) Matthews

Elizabeth “Betsy” D. (Delafield) Matthews, aged 75, of West Warwick, passed away peacefully Tuesday, July 15, 2025, surrounded by her loving family at the home of her son and daughter-in-law.

She was the devoted wife of the late David E. Matthews, Jr. Born in Rutland, Vermont, she was the cherished daughter of the late Edward C. and Margaret (Stunkel) Delafield.

Betsy grew up in Westport Connecticut, and was part of the Staples High School class of 1968. She attended Kent State, and she later returned to higher education pursuits. In May 1984, she received a Master of Arts in Psychology from Rhode Island College.

She started her career in retail at Jordan Marsh and then at Peerless. She worked as a counselor for Womens Medical Center of Rhode Island. She then returned to retail, working for Apex in Warwick, and then finally working for TJ Max on Bald Hill Rd in Warwick which she retired from.

Always an avid reader, she amassed a large collection of books. She resisted digital books for years until she finally realized how convenient it was to have new books on demand, enlarge the text, and carry a virtual library in her purse. Her Kindle was always by her side.

Betsy cherished moments spent dining with her loved ones, creating lasting memories over her favorite meals of calamari and hamburgers. She was particularly fond of the Matunuck Oyster bar where many special occasions were celebrated.

Betsy was a firm believer in making the world a better place. Her charitable giving spanned from animals to the land with a particular focus on ending hunger. 

She is survived by her beloved son, Christopher T. Matthews and his wife, Brenda M. Labonte, and her sister, Robin Delafield.

Elizabeth’s funeral service and burial will be private. Visiting hours are respectfully omitted.

The family would like to express their extreme gratitude to the Team from Continuum Hospice. With their assistance, Betsy’s last two weeks were comfortable and dignified.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Elizabeth’s memory may be made to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank.  https://rifoodbank.org

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