Elizabeth Sargeant

Elizabeth “Betsy” Strout Sargeant, 72, passed away on May 1st, 2025, of Alzheimer’s Disease. Born in Atlanta, Georgia to David & Josephine Strout, Betsy moved to Lakeland, Florida, during her middle school years and considered it her lifelong home. She graduated from Lakeland High School and later from Florida State University & the University of Central Florida. Betsy dedicated her career to the Polk County School System, working first as a Home Economics teacher and later as a School Psychologist.

Betsy’s life was marked by her unwavering love for her family, her passion for helping others, and her deep commitment to her community and its children. She spent 50 years with her beloved husband, Bill, and was a loving and proud mother to her daughters. Betsy’s greatest joy was being a grandmother to her grandchildren: Willa, Afton, Ruby, Isla, and Garrett, who are forever her sunshine.

Betsy was a passionate traveler who loved exploring new places and creating lasting memories with her family and friends. A talented artist, she loved painting and sewing. Betsy was also an active volunteer in her community, always ready to lend a helping hand.

She is survived by her husband, Bill; her brother, Matt (Leslie) Strout; her daughters, Mandy (Rachel) Sargeant, Joanna (Jimmy) McCauley, and Katie (Eric) Sims; and her treasured grandchildren.

A private memorial service will be held to celebrate her life and the beautiful legacy she leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Bethany Center for Grieving Children 3470 Lakeland Hills Blvd. Lakeland, FL 33805 in her memory.