Elizabeth “Betty” C. (Murray) Bigelow, the beloved youngest daughter of Edward and Ruth Murray of Framingham, passed away peacefully at home on May 23, 2026. A proud 1954 graduate of Framingham High School, Betty lived a life made full with family, friendship and community.
Betty married the love of her life, Harvey D. Bigelow Sr., on January 4, 1958. Betty and Harvey were active members of the Southborough community. One local organization that held a special place in their hearts was the Southborough Snowmobile Club. Betty and Harvey took great pride in helping organize the annual MetroWest “Day in the Snow,” a special day for developmentally disabled adults that brought people together for snowmobile rides, sledding, and bonfires. This event always ended with a shared meal at Betty and Harvey’s home, cementing Bigelow Road as a gathering place for friends and neighbors.
Betty’s proudest accomplishment was the large and loving family she and Harvey raised. She leaves behind four children: Donna Sergi (Rob), Harvey D. Bigelow Jr. (Paula), Susan Bigelow, and Beth Courtwright (Steve). Betty rarely missed her children’s activities, cheering them on through sports, scouting, and horseback riding lessons. She spent countless years as the beloved “cookie mom” for her daughters’ Girl Scout troops.
Betty and Harvey traveled the world together. Their favorite destinations included Hawaii, Aruba, Florida, and the Balsams in New Hampshire, and together they made many memorable trips across the country in their motor home. Walt Disney World held a special place in their hearts, and they were thrilled to share their love for “the mouse” – forever carved into the wood of their kitchen floor – with their grandchildren.
One of Betty’s fondest childhood memories was going to work with her grandfather when he worked for the Boston Braves, a story she loved to recall to her children and grandchildren. She later worked for many years at Framingham Trust Company before leaving to raise her family. In later years, Betty returned to work as a bookkeeper at PIE Trucking Company in Southborough and later at Burger King in Westborough, where she enjoyed connecting with customers.
In addition to her four beloved children and their spouses, Betty leaves behind thirteen treasured grandchildren, of whom she was endlessly proud: Daniel Bigelow, Brian Bigelow, Michelle Gaudreau (Tyler), Erica Bigelow, Jillian Wilson (Zach), Kayla Sergi, Kelley White (Brendan), KJ Walsh (Anna), Tommy Walsh (Julia), Sean Walsh, Allie Birnbaum (Cuba), Drew Courtwright, and Ryan Courtwright (Madolin). Betty’s grandchildren knew that their Nana was always their biggest fan.
Betty was also blessed to know her ten beloved great-grandchildren: Brayden, Landen, Austin, Reagan, and Cameron White; Sofia Walsh; Charlotte and Emma Walsh; Charlie Bigelow; and Henry Gaudreau.
Betty also leaves behind her best friend and sister, June Johnson. Betty and June shared almost nine decades of laughter – much of which was brought on by their sisterly teasing, which continued until the very end – and unwavering love. Their relationship continues to serve as treasured evidence that family and love are all that really matters.
Beyond her family, Betty’s favorite things included chocolate, Judge Judy and the New England Patriots. On game days, everyone knew that her phone was effectively out-of-order until the final whistle blew.
Betty was preceded in death by her beloved husband Harvey D. Bigelow Sr. in 2012, and her granddaughter-in-law Amy Kawazoe and great-grandson Louis Bigelow in 2023.
At Betty’s request, there are no calling hours. A funeral mass will be celebrated on Friday, May 29 at 11:00am at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, 105 Southville Rd., Southborough, MA 01772. A private burial will follow.
In lieu of flowers, Betty asked that donations be made to the Oregon Health Sciences University Foundation, Box 29017, Portland, OR 97296, or to Southborough Youth & Family Services, 21 [Highland] Street, Southborough, MA 01772.
Betty’s family extends their gratitude toward all those who were involved in her care, particularly over the last several months, and all of the friends and community members (especially those she connected with through the Southborough Senior Center) who made her life so full.
(Photo and Obituary via Morris-Johnston Funeral Home)
