Betsy S. Gath, 58

MEREDITH — Betsy Stanley Gath, 58, of Needle Eye Road, passed away peacefully at her home on Nov. 21, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

Born on Oct. 22, 1967, in Laconia, Betsy was the youngest of six children, of Richard and Maude Stanley. She graduated from Belmont High School where she met friends who she would share a lifelong connection with.

Joy blossomed in Betsy’s life after welcoming her first child, beginning her beautiful journey of motherhood. She later settled in Franklin, where she welcomed her second child and continued to build a life centered around family, love, and laughter. Betsy discovered a passion for cosmetology and went on to open salons in the Lakes Region. Through her work she formed many meaningful friendships that lasted decades. No one did hair quite like Betsy did.

Betsy’s life took a cherished turn when she met the love of her life, Charles O. Gath Jr. They shared many beautiful years together enjoying Lake Winnipesaukee, the place where so many of their happiest memories and good bloody Mary’s were made. She was proud to support Charlie’s craftsmanship in antique boat restorations at The Woody Works, where she often lent a hand and admired his beautiful artistry. Their Friday night date nights became a tradition they treasured, along with attending car shows in the woody wagon, and sharing laughs with friends at the shop. Meredith Bay became the backdrop of countless family gatherings, celebrations, and quiet moments together. Betsy was welcomed with open arms into Charlie’s family and embraced them with the same love and devotion she gave to all those she held dear.

Betsy’s love for her children was truly remarkable. She created a warm, joyful childhood for them and stood beside them through every milestone and challenge.

She made simple moments magical and often read them stories and poems, and sang beautiful lullabies as she tucked them into bed. She always made sure they knew they had a special place in this world and in her heart. When she became a grandmother, her heart expanded even more. Her face would light up the instant they walked into the room. Nothing brought her greater happiness than being with her children and grandchildren. Betsy shared a deep and unbreakable bond with her siblings. They were always there to support one another, talking nearly every day on the phone when they couldn’t be together in person and the laughter shared between them was never-ending; a bond Betsy cherished with all her heart. For those blessed to know her, Betsy’s love was at the forefront of everything she did.

She cared fiercely for her cousins, extended family, friends, and anyone fortunate enough to be welcomed in by her warmth. She had a radiant smile, a fun-loving spirit, and a way of making everyone feel seen, accepted, and loved. Betsy loved offering words of guidance that many will carry with them always. She was truly an angel on this Earth.

Betsy is survived by her loving husband, Charles O. Gath Jr.; his children Kathy Gath (Rick) and Charles Gath III (Christine) and sons Jarrett and Cameron; her daughter Chelsea Barry (Ethan) and children Carmen, Rome, and Leo; her son Samuel Barry (Grace); and her siblings: Richard Stanley (Melissa), Sarah Moulton (Gary), Jayne Young (Brooks), and Teddy Stanley (Rhonda). She is also survived by her beloved nieces and nephews: Richard, Melissa, Steven, the late Brooks Young Jr., Ryan, Mercedes, Sadie, Kaitlyn, Porter, Meagan, Brittany, Matt, Kayla, Katie, Nicole, and many great nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, Richard and Maude Stanley and her beloved brother Sam Stanley.

This past October, Betsy was blessed to attend her own celebration of life, a day filled with love from all of the wonderful people she has met along her journey. A private graveside service will be announced at a later date.

Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/603Cremations.com, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia, is assisting the family with arrangements. To view an online memorial or for more information, visit wilkinsonbeane.com.