Elizabeth "Betty" Willoughby

Elizabeth “Betty” Willoughby, 93, Bardstown, died peacefully on November 22, 2025 at Helmwood Healthcare in Elizabethtown. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. William Hollycross and Faye Hollycross, St. Louis.

She is survived by her former husband, Jay Willoughby, St. Louis, and by her daughters: Cindy (Jonathan) Franklin, Bellingham, WA, and Cheri (David) Floyd, Bardstown, as well as four grandchildren: Mindy Floyd Parrott and Beth Floyd Ward, Derek Franklin and Cecily Franklin Andrews and three great-grandchildren: James, Diantha, and Emrys. 

Betty moved to Bardstown with her young family in 1960 to take up roles in the Stephen Foster Story and made many close friends in Bardstown during those six years before moving to North Carolina. Betty 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 in Bardstown. Her joyful spirit will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

 A 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.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Elizabeth "Betty" Willoughby, please visit our floral store.