Mary Elizabeth (Betty) Smith Van Zandt

Mary Elizabeth (Betty) Smith Van Zandt of East Dover, VT died peacefully at home on January 17, 2019. She was born on August 29, 1927 the daughter of Gordon and Edith Standish Smith of Old Saybrook, CT. She married Robert Rockwell Van Zandt in 1947 and lived in Old Saybrook until moving to East Dover. Her husband predeceased her in 1994. Betty had a wonderful childhood, surrounded by her loving parents, Aunt Mae, godmother Goodie, cousins and many friends. Betty and her husband owned Patricks Country Store from 1970 to 1983 and spent many hours selling Levi jeans, flannel shirts, snorkel coats as well as penny candy. She was a former member of Grace Episcopal Church and the Old Saybrook Garden Club. More recently she was a trustee of the East Dover Fire Department the Dover Historical Society. Many will remember her with her Belted Galloway cows, Max the run away dog and seeing her ride side saddle on her four wheeler. She is survived by her son Robert Rockwell Van Zandt Jr.of Wilmington VT, and her daughter Gretchen Fagge (Robert) of East Dover VT. Known as Gia to her grandchildren and great grandchildren, she played a big role in their lives, and they all have fond memories of vacations at the cabin in Newfane, picnics in the snow, riding 4 wheelers and snowmobiles. She will be greatly missed by her grandchildren Jessica Faige (Tara O'Neill) of Honolulu HI, Woodfin Brewer (Ali) of South Lake Tahoe, CA, Devon Clark (Matt) of Heath, MA, Andrew Rockwell (Kayla) of East Dover, VT and Robert Van Zandt III (Katie) of North Stonington CT. Betty is also survived by her great grandchildren, Gwyneth, Stella , Hudson and Mason Clark, Finnegan Brewer, Robert Rockwell, Lily, Ryan and Colton Van Zandt. As well as nephews, nieces and their families. A special thanks to Andy, Kayla and Robert for their love and devotion this past year and Dawn Dix for her special care. Just before her 80th birthday, Betty was delighted to meet her brother, Bill, for the first time since she was adopted as an infant. She was predeceased by her biological siblings: William, Helen and Alice Stebbins and her step brother, Malcolm Smith. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the East Dover Volunteer Fire Department c/o Covey Allen & Shea Funeral Home P.O. Box 215 Wilmington, VT 05363. A graveside service will be held in Cypress Cemetery on College Street, Old Saybrook Friday January 25 at 11:00 with reception following. A celebration of life will be held in East Dover at a later date. A graveside service will be held in Cypress Cemetery on College Street, Old Saybrook Friday January 25 at 11:00 with reception following. A celebration of life will be held in East Dover at a later date.