Elizabeth W. "Betty" Mitchell, 86, of Zephyrhills, FL and Pillar Point, NY, passed Sunday, March 15th surrounded by her family at the home of her daughter, Kathleen Mitchell in Brownville.

Born on June 4, 1928 in Watertown, NY, daughter of John "Jack"and Ruth Scharch Ward, she graduated from IHA in 1947.

She married Francis J. Mitchell on June 16, 1951 at Holy Family Church.  She and Francis were high school sweethearts. In the early years they resided in Watertown where she worked for the NY Telephone Co. as an operator and supervisor for 34 years.

She was a member of the Dexter American Legion Auxiliary, Sacred Heart Foundation and Pioneers Club.

Among her survivors are her beloved husband of 63 years, Francis J. Mitchell; two daughters, Kathleen E. Mitchell, Brownville and Julie A. Rockwood, Alex Bay, NY; four  grandchildren; Timothy J. and Rachel Pond, Pawcatuck, CT; Derek and Sara Pond, Brownville, Heather Ann Rockwood, Norfolk, Benjamin and Kara Rockwood, Gouverneur and one great granddaughter, Malory Jean Pond; several nieces and nephews .

Betty is the last of her generation having her parents and brother, Thomas J. Ward all passing before her.

Betty truly enjoyed being Francis' companion for 68 years, during their high school years, raising their family and throughout their married and retirement years.  They created a beautiful home at Betmar Acres and Adams Cove, where she was loved and cared for by her devoted and loving husband.  They have summered at "Camp Betty" Adams Cove since 1947.  Once they retired, they traveled back and forth from Florida to Pillar Point.  They became true snow birds 17 years ago, when they moved to Betmar Acres in Zephyrhills.

Betty was an elegant and beautiful lady, loved by all.

Calling hours will be 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, March 20th at the Hart & Bruce Funeral Home, Watertown.

A prayer service will be 9:15 a.m. Saturday, March 21st at the funeral home followed by a 10 a.m. Funeral Mass at Immaculate Conception Church, Brownville with Monsignor Paul Whitmore, her fellow IHA classmate and friend officiating.

Burial will follow in Glenwood Cemetery.

Donations may be made to the Sacred Heart Foundation or Hospice of Jefferson County.

Online condolences may be made at the www.hartandbrucefh.com