Elizabeth L. de Thomas

The loving heart of Elizabeth L. DeThomas (Babish) of Spring Hill, Florida (known as ‘Betty Lou’ to her family and Bronx friends, simply ‘Betty’ to her Florida friends, and ‘Aunt Betty’ to a few) entered into rest on January 5, 2026, after a brief illness. She was 82 years old.

Betty was born in New York City June 27, 1943, to Florence (Frantz) Babish and Michael Babish, and lived in the Bronx, New York. She subsequently moved to

New Jersey.

After many years of dedicated service, she retired from Chase Manhattan Bank (foreign exchange) in Manhattan.

She was the devoted wife of Robert DeThomas from 1989 until his death in 2003. Together, they traveled extensively. They became part of the Regency Oaks community in 1998.

Even though Betty didn't have a driver's license she always managed to get where she needed to go. She was a dedicated volunteer for the Regency Oaks Civic Association, holding the office of Vice President for two years, Director for one. She was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary for many years and served as the “Sunshine Lady” for even longer. She was a member of the Spring Hill TOPS (Taking Pounds Off Sensibly) group and volunteered in the kitchen at the Church in the Wildwood. She gathered food for the local food pantry. Betty brought love, light and laughter to everyone she met. Her passing leaves a huge void in all of our lives.

Betty is survived by her brother William (Catherine) Babish of Long Island, NY; Cousin Linda Taranto-Stults of Cortlandt Manor, NY; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Florence and Michael; her husband Robert; and brothers Charles (Maryanne) and Raymond Babish.

Please join us for a life celebration at the Regency Oaks Civic Association Clubhouse, 4445 Breakwater Boulevard, Spring Hill FL, on January 25 at 2:00 pm.

Betty will be interred alongside her husband, Robert DeThomas, in the Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, Florida, at a future date.

Contributions may be made in Betty’s name to the Regency Oaks Civic Association, 4445 Breakwater Blvd, Spring Hill, FL 34607: or to the Christian Church in the Wildwood, 10051 Country Road, Weeki Wachee, FL 34607.