West Boylston, Massachusetts - Elizabeth Nason Murrell Halpern, 86, passed away on July 17, 2025, in West Boylston, Massachusetts. Betty was born on February 11, 1939, in Portland, Maine, to Rita Nason Murrell and Maurice Murrell.

She grew up in Northeast Harbor where she was a soda "jerk" (clerk) at Murrell's Drugstore. She began her education in the Northeast Harbor schools before graduating from Gould Academy in 1957. She studied at Wheaton College and the University of New Hampshire, where she earned a B.A. in psychology and music in 1961. She was living in New York City when she met Gordon Halpern outside her first job at Lord & Taylor. After a few years in NYC, they moved to the Nason family's homestead in Hampden. After starting her family, she earned a master's degree in education from UMO in 1974. Betty began a 25-year career in special education, spending much of her professional life in the Hampden school system. She played a pivotal role in launching both the Arts in the Curriculum initiative and the Gifted and Talented programs - efforts that reflected her belief in nurturing creativity and potential in every child.

For many summers and after retiring from teaching, she was the face of the Kimball Shop Boutique in Northeast Harbor. Her impeccable taste and appreciation for beautiful clothes were matched only by her gracious presence.

Elizabeth found joy playing the piano and sharing music with others as a long-time member of the Acadia Choral Society. She was an enthusiastic Red Sox fan and rarely missed an episode of General Hospital. An avid cook and baker, she loved entertaining friends and family with gourmet meals, pies, jam and homemade maple syrup.

She is lovingly remembered by her children, Gregory Halpern (Annellen McNamara) of Waltham, MA, Andrew Halpern (Rana Rubida) of Denver, CO, and Robin Halpern Cavanaugh (Mike Cavanaugh) of West Boylston, MA; and by her grandchildren, Aidan, Charles, and Michael Cavanaugh; Ellie and Benjamin Halpern.

Betty's legacy is one of vitality, generosity, humor and enduring love. Donations in her memory may be made to Maine Seacoast Mission and Friends of Acadia. Celebration of life services will take place in the near future in both Waltham, MA, and on MDI. She will be laid to rest with her parents in Hampden, Maine.