Mary Elizabeth Winn

A native and lifelong Houstonian and graduate of Lamar High School, Betsy studied at Pine Manor College in Boston, Mass., and graduated from the University of Texas with a bachelor’s degree in English. She was a proud member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. Dedicated to lifelong learning, Betsy went on to earn her Masters of Education from the University of Saint Thomas in Houston and later, her Masters of Library Science from Sam Houston State University.

Betsy enjoyed learning, travel and engaging people and the world with her beloved husband and best friend of 61 years, James “Jim” Winn. She especially loved spending time in the Texas Hill Country.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother and “favorite aunt” to many in her family, Betsy also was deeply immersed in the Houston community, dedicating herself, passion, time and boundless energy to schools and organizations across the city.

She served as the elementary school librarian at St. Francis Episcopal School, River Oaks Baptist School and The Fay School, and helped establish a library at Yellowstone Schools in the Third Ward.

She also devoted countless volunteer hours to the St. Francis Altar Guild and The Gathering for dementia patients, the American Association of University Women and the Houston Museum of Fine Arts. She was also a Kappa Gamma book club member and former president of Delta Kappa Gamma teacher’s sorority. The more Betsy gave of herself, the more was asked of her and she readily accepted.

Radiating a blend of warmth, cheer and gentle persistence, Betsy was known for her grace and generosity in making everyone feel truly welcomed. She cherished family gatherings and embraced every opportunity to bring loved ones together.

Her limitless interests extended from her passion for learning to bridge, Mah Jongg, The New York Times word game Wordle and the arts, especially classical music and her season tickets to the Houston Ballet. She always felt she needed to be out doing something.

She is survived by her husband, Jim; daughters, Anne Runge (Tom) and Carolyn Breslin; grandchildren, Lou Runge, James Runge and Melanie Breslin; her brother, Bert Smith; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Her family, friends, and all who knew her will miss Betsy’s loving presence, beautiful smile, and unwavering support.

A memorial service to honor Betsy’s life is to be conducted at eleven o’clock in the morning on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at Saint Francis Episcopal Church, 345 Piney Point Road in Houston. Immediately following, all are invited to greet the family during a reception in the parish hall.

For those unable to attend the service in-person, virtual attendance may be accessed by selecting the “Join Livestream” icon on the service section below.

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions may be directed to Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston Meals on Wheels, 3303 Main Street Houston, Texas, 77002; Yellowstone Schools, 3000 Trulley St., Houston, Texas, 77004; St. Francis Episcopal Church, 345 Piney Point Rd., Houston, Texas 77024; or the charity of your choice.

Betsy’s legacy of kindness, dedication and love will continue to inspire those fortunate to have known, learned, and benefited from her amazing grace.