Obituary of Elizabeth A Bonomi

Elizabeth “Betty” Bonomi, of West Newbury, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2024, at the age of 80 after a courageous battle following complications from cancer. Betty was born on February 12, 1943, to Elizabeth (Pellegrino) and Benedict Orlando of Medford MA. She was the only child for 11 years and then welcomed her baby sister Denise who she adored and nurtured like a mother. After graduating from Medford High School in 1960 she went on to become a dental assistant, graduating from Boston School of Dental Nursing. She worked for a private dentist before landing a job at Harvard University Health Services Dental Department. At that time, she met her former husband, Robert Bonomi. They married and after a brief time in Medford they moved to a Military base in Virginia. It is there where they welcomed their first child Nancy. Betty returned to Medford when Bob shipped out to Vietnam to raise Nancy that first year with her parents.  When Nancy was 1 year of age, they settled in Reading, MA and a few years later they welcomed their son, David. In those early years Betty was a homemaker and had an unwavering commitment to the community. As a Member of the Young Women’s League of Reading, MA, Betty's philanthropic efforts benefited countless individuals and organizations. Betty also loved teaching youths and was a softball coach for Nancy’s teams, nurturing not only athletic skills but also the values of teamwork and perseverance.

 Betty's passions extended far beyond her professional and philanthropic endeavors. An avid cyclist, she explored the landscapes of New England and enjoyed leisurely rides around town in her later years. At age 36, she decided she wanted to further her education. She went to Northeastern University earning her bachelor’s degree in Sociology-Anthropology. She received the University College Award for academic excellence in her field of study. She went on to earn her master’s degree in social work from Simmons College in 1985. Betty's career in social work was not just a profession; it was a calling. She became a respected member of the National Association of Social Workers, where she co-founded and chaired the ethics commission, dedicating herself to the betterment of society through her work. She started her social work career at Cambridge Hospital Victim of Violence Program and later at Harvard Pilgrim where she continued trauma work with victims and their families. After 13 years, when mental health was carved out of HPHP due to finances she found a new professional passion at the Natick Visiting Nurses as a fierce advocate for elderly and disabled homebound patients. 

 As she reached retirement, Betty met her partner of 17 years, Carroll Winch. They built a life together in West Newbury, Ma in an over 55 community at Ocean Meadows. The friendships formed here were special. Friends that helped in every way possible to support Betty and her family through her cancer treatments and beyond. During these years, she took painting classes, joined a book club, biked and attended many community gatherings and parties. As a couple, Betty and Carroll enjoyed cribbage, daily crossword puzzles, mystery movies, football games, travel and early morning coffee at the docks in Newburyport.

Betty knew how to fill what free time she had with bountiful hobbies. She was an accomplished pianist, playing often for friends and family.  She was a fantastic baker, and took immense pride in baking wonderful desserts, cookies and pies. She was an excellent Italian cook famous for her lasagna and meatballs, hosting many family dinners and gatherings and especially enjoyed hosting cousin’s parties. She was the ultimate hostess. Betty was a lover of the performing arts, enjoying live Broadway theatre and classical music. She learned to paint in a way she never imagined during classes at the Newburyport Senior center with her neighborhood friends. She crafted beautiful paintings of marshes and landscapes. Some which were commissioned. Betty was a good friend to all. Always there for advice, support and help in any way. 

Betty was the loving mother of Nancy Eldridge and her husband Gregory of Natick and David Bonomi of Houston, TX. She was the proud grandmother to Matthew Eldridge and his wife Alison of Walpole, Lauren Eldridge of Natick, Alexandra Bonomi and Isabella Bonomi of Houston, TX and great grandmother to Olivia Silva. Betty was the beloved partner of Carroll Winch of West Newbury. She was the caring sister of Denise Orecchio and her husband Louis of Woburn. Betty was the dear aunt and godmother to Alison Orecchio of Westford and was cherished by many loving cousins. Betty is predeceased by her parents Benedict and Elizabeth and former husband Robert Bonomi. 

Betty’s family offers their sincere appreciation to the nurses and aides at AdviniaCare in Newburyport for the care and attention they gave Betty in her final days. Knowing she was kept comfortable provided the family with much needed solace. 

A visitation for Betty will be held on February 19, from 4 to 7 PM at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington, MA 01803. A funeral mass for Betty will be held on February 20, at 10 AM at St. Raphael Church, 512 High Street, Medford, MA 02155. Burial at Oak Grove Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org. or Care Dimensions Hospice, caredimensions.org

For more online guestbook, tribute video and service information, please visit www.sullivanfuneralhome.net.