Elizabeth “Betty” Willoughby, 93, of Bardstown, died peacefully Nov. 22, 2025 at Helmwood Healthcare in Elizabethtown.
She moved to Bardstown with her young family in 1960 to take up roles in the Stephen Foster Story. She made many close friends in Bardstown during those six years before moving to North Carolina.
She is best known for her sparkle and laughter. She lived life to the fullest and brought love and joy to those around her. She could light up a stage with her lovely soprano voice and charming stage presence.
She returned to Bardstown in 2000 and spent countless happy days playing golf and bridge with her many good friends. Her joyful spirit will be greatly missed by her family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. William Hollycross and Faye Hollycross.
She is survived by her former husband, Jay Willoughby of St. Louis; two daughters, Cindy (Jonathan) Franklin of Bellingham, Wash. and Cheri (David) Floyd of Bardstown; four grandchildren, Mindy Floyd Parrott, Beth Floyd Ward, Derek Franklin, Cecily Franklin Andrews; and three great-grandchildren, James, Diantha, and Emrys.
The family memorial service will be held in St. Louis, Missouri at a time to be determined.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Stephen Foster Story.
Barlow Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
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