Elizabeth "Betty" Raymond

Elizabeth Lane Raymond, affectionately known as Betty, passed away on March 12, 2025. She was born to the late Melvin and Norma (Joler) Lane on April 8, 1956, in Waterville, Maine where she spent her childhood making treasured memories with her family and friends. In 1971, with her parents and her brother Paul, she moved to Lyndonville, Vermont where she would spend the remainder of her life making her own lasting mark.

Betty graduated from Lyndon Institute in 1974 and continued her education at Castleton State College, ultimately earning her degree in Early Childhood Development from Lyndon State College. She dedicated several years to working with children, beginning at Lyndon Children’s Center and later the Head Start program.

In 1979 she married Martin Dean Raymond, a fellow student at Lyndon State College, originally from Bennington, VT. Together they shared many adventures until his passing in 2021. Their family was complete with the arrival of their son, Jacob Michael, in 1985. They made many memories together over the years on family vacations. Betty was a devoted mother, always present at Jacob’s sporting events, and she enjoyed staying connected with him and his friends. She and Marty both volunteered at the Lyndon Outing Club, managing the kitchen during Jacob’s middle school years.

Recognizing a need in the area for stylish plus-size women’s clothing, Betty opened Elizabeth’s Large Size Fashions in downtown St. Johnsbury in 1985. For over 25 years her store was a beloved fixture. Betty had a genuine passion for connecting with people. She loved greeting customers with a friendly hello and an invitation for conversation that often led to her having your whole life story in moments. She delighted in helping customers find the perfect outfit, always accessorizing with a beautiful scarf and a nice pair of earrings. As a dedicated business owner she was very active in the St. Johnsbury Downtown Association and one year was honored as Business Woman of the Year.

Betty loved swimming, many hours were spent in the water at Willoughby Lake and Newark Pond. She enjoyed tending to her beautiful irises, watching reality television, and trying her luck with scratch tickets. She did have a winning moment with a $50,000 prize, though the overall cost of her “hobby” remained a mystery.

She was a passionate supporter of the Burklyn Arts Council, serving as a long-time trustee and wearing many hats over the years. Her dedication to the craft fairs, particularly managing the kitchen and serving as treasurer, created many lasting friendships.

Betty is survived by her son, Jacob M. Raymond, his wife Tiffany, and their children Kolbie L. Raymond and Kohlten L. Peterson of Rainier, WA; also grandchildren Madeline Elizabeth Raymond and Ethan M. Raymond of Alpine, NY and their mother Theresa Mathews; her brother, and sister-in-law, Paul and Amanda Lane of Sutton, VT; three special nieces, Kelly Lemieux, Sarah Lane and Michelle Lane; her beloved cousins and lifelong friends, including Wendy Sue Williams who was always there when Betty needed her.

A celebration of her and Marty’s lives is being planned for June when many more memories will be shared. The family will have a private burial in the Beth El Synagogue section of Mt Pleasant Cemetery.

Donations in memory of Betty can be made to Burklyn Arts Council, PO Box 1056, Lyndonville, VT 05851

Memories and condolences may be shared with family at saylesfh.com.