Betsy Harrison Obituary

A beloved mother, friend, mentor and community activist, Betsy Harrison passed away on April 9th, 2023, in her home in Mancos, surrounded by family and close friends. An activist from a young age, Betsy was involved in vigils at San Quentin penitentiary opposing the death penalty, was an anti-war protester and trained to be a conscientious objector. She graduated from law school in her 40's.

She moved to Mancos in her 60's with the intent to retire and pursue her passions for art and photography, but retirement was not for her. Over the next twenty years, Betsy became involved in her community. She was a Mancos Town Trustee and left an indelible mark on numerous non-profit organizations in leadership board positions including Mancos Common Press, Mancos Creative District, Mancos Valley Resources, Mancos Chamber of Commerce, Mancos Food Share, Mt. Lookout Grange, and Mancos School of the West. Betsy traveled to Washington DC in 2020 to advocate for Rosa Sabido, who lived in sanctuary in Mancos for several years, while holding out hope for a private bill granting her residency in the U.S.

She had an insatiable intellectual curiosity leading to a host of wild adventures which included travel, sailing, vintage car restoration, co-ownership of the Columbine Bar and the raising native Churro sheep for which she became award-winning. Her community of friends were diverse in age & background with the commonality of shared passions and a get-it-done attitude.

Betsy never met a dog she didn't like and frequently could be seen with pets-in-tow.

She was proceeded in death by Bob Goldfeder, husband and Virginia Hess, mother who both enjoyed the hospitality of the Mancos community.

She is survived by 6 children and 4 grandchildren and countess beloved friends.

At her death, she was working with the Mancos Common Press and the board to raise funds for much needed workforce housing in downtown Mancos, as well as expanded workshop space for the Press. Anyone wishing to honor Betsy can contribute to the Mancos Common Press at www.mancoscommonpress.org or send a check to MCP PO 223, Mancos, CO 81328