Betty Lee Greenwell

Betty Lee Greenwell — loving matriarch, neighborhood mom, and mischief maker with a heart of gold— passed away peacefully on May 25, 2025, at the age of 95. Though her formal address may have changed over the years, her heart never left Eastport, Maryland.

Born to Howard and Mattie Meade (both of whom undoubtedly greeted her at the pearly gates), Betty was predeceased by her beloved husband, Joseph K. Greenwell; her son, Donald E. Greenwell; and her sister, June Dove. Heaven just got a lot more lively.

She leaves behind a loving legacy: sons Joseph K. Greenwell Jr. (Doris) and William H. Greenwell (Peggy); daughter-in-law Christine Greenwell; grandchildren Mattie Dunigan (Zach), Amy Greenwell, and Mark Greenwell; six great-grandchildren; niece Linda Gannacone; grandniece Christina Gannacone; and Lori Luongo, who wasn’t born into the family but was loved like she was.

Betty had a knack for making everyone feel like they belonged — especially if you were hungry, heartbroken, or in need of a laugh. Her house was always open, and her kitchen was the stuff of legends: crab cakes that could win awards, johnny cakes made with love, and enough holiday magic to fill a sleigh.

She was part saint, part sass — the kind of woman who would give you the shirt off her back and then prank you with a perfectly timed fart machine. She adored church on Sundays, treasure-hunting at yard sales, doting on her dogs, and offering food and care to every stray cat that crossed her path.

Betty didn’t need riches to feel rich — her wealth came from love, laughter, and the joy of feeding people (furry or otherwise). She gave generously, loved ferociously, and always put others first.

We’ll miss her hugs, her stories, and her unmatched ability to make even the worst day better with a joke, a meal, or a warm seat at her kitchen table.

A committal service will be held Friday, June 13, 2025, at 10:45 a.m. at the Crownsville Veterans Cemetery (1122 Sunrise Beach Road, Crownsville, MD 21032). In lieu of flowers, consider doing something Betty would: feed someone, love a little harder, or pull a harmless prank just to hear someone laugh.