Bettsy Hewitt Lane

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Bettsy Hewitt Lane on May 4, 2023. Bettsy was born on June 22, 1944, in Ashville, NY to Arthur and Althea Hewitt and passed away peacefully in Fredericksburg, VA.

Bettsy was a beloved wife, sister, aunt, stepmother, step grandmother, and step great-grandmother. She was known for her kind heart, her generosity, her unwavering love for her family, and her lifelong affection for her cats, especially her Birmans.

Bettsy was a dedicated wife to her husband, Michael Lane, and together they shared many memories traveling worldwide in their lifelong quest for adventure.

Bettsy was a brilliant woman, and lifetime public servant. She earned her bachelor's degree from Purdue and went on to receive her PhD in psychology from the University of Rochester.

Bettsy was a dedicated public servant and worked for the United States Treasury Department for 34 years, serving as Assistant Commissioner for several years. She was a respected leader in her field and was known for her expertise and professionalism. She pioneered programs still in use today such as direct deposit for federal benefits distribution, enabling financial security for millions, particularly the elderly and homeless who may not otherwise be able to collect their benefits consistently.

Outside of her professional life, Bettsy was an avid traveler, always seeking new adventures and experiences. She and Michael traveled frequently with friends to exotic and exciting destinations. She had a particular affinity for Chinese culture and was lovingly referred to as Zumu (Chinese for grandma) by her grandchildren.

Upon retirement, she and Michael moved to Gloucester, Virginia where she became a light in her community, volunteering in nursing homes and garden clubs or simply hosting water aerobics for her neighbors, sharing her positive energy and generous spirit wherever she went. Bettsy was also a lover of nature and enjoyed spending time outdoors, whether it be hiking, gardening, or simply taking a walk. She also loved to shop with family and friends as evidenced in her quirky yet classic style.

Bettsy will be dearly missed by her family and friends, who will always remember her as a loving and caring person. Her legacy will live on through her stepchildren, niece and nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who will continue to be inspired by her kindness, her strength, and her unwavering spirit.

Bettsy is preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Althea Hewitt and survived by her husband, Michael Lane, sister, Mary Jo Wanner, brother, William Watson (Sheila) Hewitt, nephews, Todd (Melissa) and Tim (Amy), niece, Tammy (Roy), stepson, Michael Lane, stepdaughter, Laura (Michael) Pontbriand, stepson Ian (Liz) Lane, grandchildren, Leann, AlanMichael, Brody and great grandchildren, Jaycen and Aleena.

Details regarding a celebration of Bettsy's life will be forthcoming.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bettsy's memory to the Alzheimer's Association.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mullinsthompsonfredericksburg.com for the Lane family.