Elizabeth M. Nutt

Elizabeth "Betty" Mable Nutt died peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on January 5, 2026, in Newport, Rhode Island, after a long journey with breast cancer. She was 83.

Born July 31, 1942, in New York, Betty lived a life marked by quiet strength and grace. She welcomed all, stood up for those who could not defend themselves, and consistently sought to make life easier for others. Her love was unconditional and freely given.

Betty was deeply devoted to her family. She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Mary Keough-our loving Nanny-who was dearly loved by both Betty and our family. She is survived by her husband, John R. Nutt; her children, Teresa, Robert, and John; her grandchildren, David, Andrew, Taylor, Rachel, Caitlyn, Jill, and Jordyn; her great-grandchildren, Charlie, Teddy, and Bea; and her brother, William "Bill" Wills. She also embraced the Wills children-Billy, Michael, Gina, and Joey-as her own, and many friends and neighbors came to know her simply as Grandma.

She found meaning in service and was a devoted member of Portsmouth Friends Church since 1971, serving faithfully as assistant treasurer and secretary for more than 40 years. Betty's favorite verse, Isaiah 40:31, was the last Scripture read to her and remained a source of comfort and strength throughout her life.

Many knew Betty through her 23 years of work at Melville Elementary School and Portsmouth High School. Later in life, she worked for the Coleman family on Ocean Drive for over 30 years, a relationship marked by mutual kindness and enduring friendship.

In her final weeks, Betty was lovingly cared for at home by her family. They are grateful for the compassion shown by friends, neighbors, hospice nurses, and all who offered prayers and support. Betty's home was always open-a place where a stranger might arrive, but a friend would always leave in laughter.

One brief story reflects her spirit. When two senior Tanzanian generals visiting the U.S. Naval War College were invited into her home for dinner, they shared that it was the first time they had ever been welcomed into a private home during their travels. When Betty apologized for the house being small, one officer replied, "Madam, this may be a small house, but it is very large to hold so much love."

Betty's ashes will remain with her family until they gather in late spring or early summer at Portsmouth Friends Church to celebrate her life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Portsmouth Friends Church by check mailed to P.O. Box 310, Portsmouth, RI 02871. Please include "Parsonage" on the memo line. Restoring the 1890s parsonage on Quaker Hill for the community was something Betty deeply hoped to see.

She will be remembered for her quiet strength, steady presence, and abiding love.