Elizabeth Ann Shupe

In the end, it is love that binds us together and gives us strength. Robin Oliviera, “My Name Is Mary Sutter” We are deeply saddened by the death of Elizabeth A. deZeeuw Shupe, 83, who died Saturday the 15th at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital. Betsy was born in Lansing, MI. Her father, Dr. Carl deZeeuw, was a world-renowned tree expert, and the family traveled with him to South East Asia and the Philippines for his study. Traveling and living abroad as a teenager shaped Betsy's life and interests, from her lifelong love of literature and history to a passion for travel and culture. Betsy graduated from Fayetteville-Manlius HS and earned a BS in Nursing from Syracuse University, where she met her husband of 55 years, Palmer M. Shupe of Syracuse, NY. After graduating, she lived in Syracuse, Jamesville and Bridgeport before moving to Tallahassee in 2020. Betsy worked as a school nurse in the Syracuse City School District for more than 20 years, earning the love of hundreds of children as well as her peers. The Syracuse Post Standard had even published an article about her service. After her retirement, Betsy — an avid reader and genealogy enthusiast — worked at the Sullivan Free Library in Bridgeport until 2019. She was also a member of the Fayetteville-Owahgena chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. In addition to intellectual pursuits, Betsy was equally at home working with her hands: she and Palmer purchased an 1820 farmhouse in Jamesville, NY, and renovated it from the ground up, keeping true to its original nineteenth-century charm while modernizing it for their growing family’s needs. This skill in renovation would extend to helping her grown children with their own home projects, from decorating to construction projects! Perhaps one the most important things instilled in them was her example of a strong work ethic. Betsy also always welcomed the opportunity to make handcrafts for friends and family, knitting and crocheting exquisite blankets, sweaters and baby items as well as making Christmas ornaments, stockings and home decor. During the spring and summer, she could be found in her expansive vegetable garden or tending to the wide variety of flowers in her yard. Another passion was baking, especially at holiday time, when she made both traditional cookies passed down from Dutch ancestors as well as modern favorites. Betsy also loved photography, and took beautiful images while traveling on cruises or just making road-trips to visit family. Betsy’s grandchildren remember her as a patient and caring grandmother-on-the-go. Whether it was fishing, camping, cooking, art projects, games or simply reading together, she was always at the ready to play with her grandkids, and they loved and cherished their moments together. Her enthusiasm for many of life’s activities rubbed off on her grandchildren, who also now love crafting, art, and outdoor activities like hiking, snowboarding, bird watching, skateboarding and exploring nature. Betsy is survived by her children, David C. Shupe of Armonk, NY and Elizabeth L. Shupe Wootan of Tallahassee, FL; three siblings; three grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. She will be laid to rest in a private burial at a later date in Fayetteville Cemetery, NY. Contributions in her name may be made to the Sullivan Free Library, Bridgeport NY. Contributions may be made to Sullivan Free Library, Bridgeport NY. Todd Wahlquist is assisting the family with her arrangements (850-385-2193, www.bevisfh.com).

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Elizabeth Ann Shupe

January 18, 1942 - February 15, 2025