Elizabeth Jean Jagoe (“Betsy”) passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the age of 78.

Betsy was born on August 8, 1948, in Fitchburg, Wisconsin, to Eugene and Ruth Richardson. She was one of seven Richardson children and the third youngest in a large and loving family. Growing up among six siblings helped shape the deep appreciation for family, togetherness, and lifelong relationships that would remain at the heart of Betsy’s life.

Betsy graduated from Edgewood High School in 1966 and went on to attend the University of Wisconsin–Platteville, where she earned a degree in Elementary Education in 1970. She later returned to UW–Platteville to earn her Master’s Degree in Education.

While in college, Betsy met the love of her life, Patrick Henry Jagoe of Mauston, Wisconsin. Betsy and Patrick were married on August 16, 1969, in Madison, Wisconsin, beginning a loving partnership that would span nearly 54 years.

Following her graduation from college, Betsy and Patrick made their home in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, where they raised their two sons, Matthew and Benjamin. Family was always at the center of Betsy’s life. She was a devoted and loving wife and mother who took tremendous pride in her family and found great happiness in caring for those she loved.

Teaching was more than a career for Betsy—it was one of the great passions of her life. For decades, she dedicated herself to educating and caring for children in the Wisconsin Dells community. She retired from teaching in 2004, but retirement could not diminish her passion for education or her desire to make a difference in the lives of children.

Unable to stay away from the classroom for long, Betsy started a private school, Kids Time, which she and Patrick ran together for 12 years. Her unwavering commitment to teaching made a profound impact on countless young people and families throughout the Wisconsin Dells area. She especially enjoyed hearing from former students and learning about the indelible impact she had made on their lives. Those stories brought her great joy and were a meaningful reminder of the lasting difference a dedicated teacher can make.

Betsy was a devout Catholic. She and Patrick were active parishioners at St. Cecilia Catholic Church for nearly 50 years and active parishioners at St. Thomas Aquinas parish after moving to Middleton, Wisconsin. Her steadfast Catholic faith was a beacon that made her a loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend. She gave generously of her time, attention, and love and had a special way of making those around her feel cared for and welcomed. She treasured her role as a mother and grandmother, took great pride in her family’s accomplishments especially her grandchildren, celebrated their milestones, and was always there to offer encouragement, comfort, and support.

Betsy also cherished the many friendships she formed throughout her life. She valued people and relationships deeply. Whether with family, longtime friends, former students, or someone she had just met, Betsy brought warmth, compassion, and a genuine interest in others. She loved to play cards and always looked forward to “Thirsty Thursdays” at her sister Rita’s house. There, she and her family would dine, play cards, exchange in spirited banter and enjoy an occasional tipple (or two).

Betsy will be remembered for her loving heart, her devotion to Patrick and their family, and her extraordinary commitment to educating and caring for generations of children. Her legacy can be found not only in the family she loved so dearly, but also in the countless students whose lives were made better because Betsy Jagoe was their teacher.

While her passing leaves an immeasurable void, her family takes comfort in the wonderful memories they shared, the lives she touched, and the knowledge that her kindness, lessons, and love will continue through the generations.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

Betsy is survived by her two sons Matthew Patrick (Heidi) Jagoe and Benjamin Aaron (Jessica) Jagoe; her five adoring grandchildren Abigail (Andy) Chafe, Michael Jagoe, Andrew Jagoe, William Jagoe and Eleanor Jagoe; sisters Rita Little, Mary Steel and Teresa (Fred) Miller; sisters-in-law Mary Modjeski and Deb Larsen; countless nieces and nephews and her furry friend Rosie.

She was preceded in death by her husband Patrick Jagoe; father Eugene Richardson; mother Ruth Richardson (Fleming); sister Agnes (Dave) Stegner, brothers Gerald (Garnett) Richardson and Michael Richardson; brothers-in-law Chuck Little, Hugh Steel and Father Bede Jagoe.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 11:00 am at ST. THOMAS AQUINAS CATHOLIC CHURCH, 602 Everglade Drive, Madison, WI. Family will greet friends from 9:30 am until the time of Mass. A reception at church will follow the Mass.

Please share your memories of Betsy by posting in her guestbook.

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