Elizabeth M. Bryson

Waltham - Mrs. Elizabeth M. 'Betty' (Gannon) Bryson, of Waltham, died Sunday, May 3, 2009 in her home. She was 96.

Betty was born September 25, 1912 in Cambridge, a daughter of the late James and Ellen (Hughes) Gannon and was raised in Weston. A graduate of Waltham High School, she had lived most of her life in Waltham.

Betty worked for many years as an Assistant to the Dean at Bentley College before retiring in 1979. Previously, she had worked in the accounting department at Brandeis University.

She was a communicant of Saint Mary's Church and often attended Mass at Saint Charles Borromeo Church. She was also a member of the Ladies Guild at Corpus Christi Church in Auburndale. Betty's life was centered around her family and her faith. She loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and extended family and friends.

Her husband, Emmett J. Bryson died July 9, 1995. She was predeceased by her siblings, James, George and William Gannon, Loretta McElroy, Ellen Hanley and Irene Connolly.

She leaves her children, Robert E. Bryson and his wife, Lynda, of West Barnstable, Don J. Bryson of Waltham and Deborah E. Robidoux and her husband, Ken, of Ashfield; her sister, Dorothy Hansberry of Wellesley; three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will honor and remember Betty's life by gathering for calling hours at The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham on Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m. and again at 8 a.m. on Thursday morning before leaving in procession to the Blessed Sacrament Chapel of Saint Charles Borromeo Chuch, 51 Hall Street, Waltham where her Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 9 a.m. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Waltham.

Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of the Good Shepherd, 2042 Beacon Street, Newton, MA 02468.