Elizabeth "Betty" Williamson

elizabeth

December 8, 1935 ~ November 12, 2022

Born in: Buncombe County, NC
Resided in: Asheville, NC

Elizabeth “Betty” Grosvenor Colburn Williamson, 86, of Asheville, died Saturday, November 12, 2022 at her residence.

A native of Buncombe County, she was a daughter of the late Burnham and Caroline Spalding Colburn. Betty was also preceded in death by her husband, Fred Kent Williamson, who died in 1997 as well as a brother, Burnham S. Colburn, III of Asheville.

Betty attended The Oldfields School for Girls, graduating in 1954. She completed her education by receiving at BA in Art History from Sweet Briar College in 1958.

Betty, as she was affectionately known, was an avid equestrian. She was a National A level Pony Club Examiner and riding instructor. Betty coached many students to both regional and national accolades with her area of expertise in the Hunter/Jumper world. Through her coaching Betty touched the lives of many children in the area and is fondly remembered by all.

Betty was also very active in The French Broad River Garden Club. She was an expert gardener, concentrating on her flower beds and vegetable garden. Betty also enjoyed flower arranging, often entering competitions and winning numerous prizes.

Betty is survived by a daughter, Caroline Colburn Williamson and her husband, Ian Welliver, of Asheville; a son, Dr. Weldon Kent Williamson of Asheville; two sisters, Dorothy S. Rice of Florida and Caroline S. Gilbert of New Hampshire as well as several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, November 28, 2022 at Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian.

In lieu of flowers, Betty’s family asks that you consider making a contribution in her memory to the Asheville Humane Society.

Services

Celebration of Life: November 28, 2022 11:00 am

Room: Chapel

Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian
72 Long Shoals Road
Arden, NC 28704

(828)687-3530
http://www.grocefuneralhome.com

Funeral Home Assisting The Family:

Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian
72 Long Shoals Road
Arden, NC 28704

(828)687-3530
http://www.grocefuneralhome.com

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  1. I have so many wonderful memories of Betty from my years growing up, keeping horses at her stable and riding with her almost every day. She was definitely a unique person, and I remember so many many things I learned from her and all the good times we had. She is definitely someone I can never forget.

  2. Betty was such a blessing to those of us in the pony club. She boarded my horse “Punkin” and cheerfully helped me get back on him every time he scraped me off on a tree. It seems like yesterday. I loved her warm, down to earth energy.

  3. I have so many happy memories of Betty and I am trying to remember those and not grieve for her. I knew her for 50 years so I’m feeling old, but she was always a delight to be around. I take comfort knowing that she is with her husband now, who I also adored.

  4. Sending much love to Betty’s family. Am out of the country so cannot attend her service, but will be thinking of Caroline, Callie and Dino and send them my deepest sympathy. Betty was a unique individual and my deceased husband David (Betty’s cousin) and I have many memories of times with “Cousin Betty”!

  5. My sincere condolences Caroline and Kent. Your mother was and amazing woman and teacher. I treasure the memories of learning to ride and even mucking the stalls. The afternoons riding around the estate were awesome and i can still hear Betty yelling “knockers up Francis”

  6. Betty was a “horse mom” when I was a fledgling horse mom. She was lovely and encouraging. I enjoyed seeing her at horseshows and Harris Teeter on our daily runs. Caroline, I know you miss her. My condolences and share in many happy memories.


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