Doris A. Betterley

WORCESTER-Doris A. (Jeffers) Betterley, 96, passed away on July 27th, 2015 at the Knollwood Nursing Center in Worcester. Formerly a resident of Holden and Worcester, she was predeceased by her husband of 68 years, Delbert A. (Del) Betterley, in 2011.


Doris was born in Hudson, MA in 1919, daughter of Omer and Hilda (Peterson) Jeffers. A 1937 graduate of Commerce High School in Worcester, she worked at United Shoe Machinery Corp. before marrying Del in 1943. She belonged to Wesley United Methodist Church of Worcester, where for many years she was a member of the church's United Methodist Women's club. She was a long-time member of the Philanthropic Educational Organization (PEO) and a volunteer at the Worcester Housing Authority.
Doris was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, who delighted in her family and friends. Always quick with a joking comment or a political observation, she kept the conversation lively.


She is survived by her daughter, Carolyn B. Field and her husband, Dr. Bruce M. Field of Northborough, and her son, Richard S. Betterley, Sr. and his wife, Joan K. Betterley of Sterling, grandchildren Cathryn, Sarah, Jennifer, Richard Jr. (Chip), and Jeremy and great-grandchildren Amelia, Ezra, Evelyn, Ian, and Rhys. She was predeceased by her parents and her brothers Earl and Robert Jeffers.


A private memorial service will be held at a later date. There will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wesley United Methodist Church (114 Main Street Worcester MA 01608), or to a charity of your choice.