Elizabeth "Betsy" Shirley Abel died peacefully in her home from congestive heart failure on March 25, 2014 surrounded by her friends and family. Betsy was born May 17, 1951, in Montgomery, AL, to Gene and Libba Shirley. She moved to Springfield in 1965 and was a member of the Glendale Class of '69 before attending Auburn University. Betsy spent most of her working career in the Real Estate Closing & Title industry.

Betsy is survived by her mother, Libba Shirley; brothers, Joe (Judy) and Clay (Ronda); and sister, Jeanne (John Frazier). She leaves behind her children, Laura and Brent (Shannon) Chambers; and her most precious grandson, Barrett.

A long time member of St. James Episcopal Church, Betsy was a member of the Daughters of the King and was an active participant in Outreach activities. She enjoyed going to the lake, reading, her book club and tutoring at Field Elementary School. Most importantly, Betsy loved being with Barrett and felt he was the love of her life. For that reason, she and her family request that in lieu of flowers, any memorial donations should be given to Barrett's college fund at Morgan Stanley 1525 E. Primrose, Springfield, MO 65804 marked "Barrett Chambers".

The celebration of Betsy's life will be held at St. James Episcopal Church 2645 Southern Hills Blvd. at 10:30 am on Saturday, March 29, 2014.