Elizabeth Ann Mathewson Grove, (Betty), 99 years of age, a well-known resident who helped others with transportation and food delivery support, died on January 23, 2020, at Maple Heights in Hiawatha, Kansas.

She was born on September 21, 1920, to James and Helen Nesladek Mathewson. Betty graduated from Hiawatha High School in 1941. A lifelong Hiawatha resident, she provided grocery delivery to elderly Hiawatha residents from the Mathewson Meat Market, a family business. She also served as cashier and stock clerk at the downtown Hiawatha Ben Franklin Variety Store and at the Hiawatha Shelter. She delivered commodities to families needing assistance in the Hiawatha area and worked with individuals with disabilities at the Shelter.

Betty was very active in the St. Ann’s Altar Society for over 60 years in the areas of fundraising and other church activities.

Betty married Ed Grove of Padonia, Kansas, in 1948, following his honorable discharge from the US Army. Ed had served in Germany during World War II. She and Ed lived on their farm outside of Hiawatha until his death in 1982. Betty then moved back home with her parents in their Shawnee Street house while working at Ben Franklin Variety Store. Years later, she moved to Maple Heights where she spent her retirement and later years while continuing her community activities. She was an active member of the Hiawatha VFW Auxiliary.

She was also preceded in death by her parents and brother Robert Mathewson.

Betty is survived by 5 nieces and nephews, 13 great nieces and nephews, and many great-great nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Friday, January 31, 2020, at St. Ann Catholic Church in Hiawatha, Kansas. Father Dan Gardner will officiate. Interment will follow immediately at Mount Hope Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Betty’s honor can be made to the St. Ann’s Altar Society, Freedom Hospice or Maple Heights Nursing Home, which may be sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha, Kansas 66434.

The Parish Rosary will be recited at 6 p.m. on Thursday, January 30, 2020, followed by family visiting with friends until 7 p.m., at the funeral home.

If attending Betty's visitation or service, please wear red, her favorite color.

www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com