Betsy Ann Harris

Betsy Ann Harris (Age 83), a former Fairfax County

Public Schools teacher, passed away on April 6, 2026.

Betsy was born on September 9, 1942. Moving to the D.C. area in the fall of 1964, Betsy taught English at Falls Church High School for 25 years and then transferred to Oakton High School. Retiring from full-time teaching in October 1997, she continued to work another 20 years for FCPS as a part-time teacher for two years and then on a temporary basis as a substitute teacher and as a temporary employee for the Office of Student Testing.

The daughter of the late Thomas Ben and Lucile Herman Harris, Betsy grew up in New London, North Carolina. She came to Washington after graduating from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. After five years in the classroom, she took a year’s leave and completed a master’s degree at Wesleyan University (Middletown, CT). Betsy enjoyed city living in Northwest D.C. and was thrilled to have easy access to the city’s arts and culture scene. Always the English teacher and lover of literature, she was especially partial to Washington’s many local professional theaters.

Because of her strength, commitment to excellence, and extraordinary loyalty, Betsy was an inspiration to countless colleagues and students. Her friendships were enduring and transformative. Most importantly, she was a role model for many students who were deeply influenced both by her love of the written word and by her remarkable character.

Anyone wishing to honor Betsy’s memory should direct the gift to WETA or to a scholarship fund at Falls Church High School, 7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church, VA 22042.