Saratoga Springs, NY - Elizabeth "Betty" N. Ponessa, 89, passed away on December 3, 2021 surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on January 11, 1932 in Chesterfield, NY.

Betty will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She was a devoted wife and caring for her husband, children and grandchildren were Betty's greatest joys in life. Betty was an avid bird watcher but loved all animals especially the many dogs she took in over the years. She enjoyed gardening alongside her husband Joe and together each summer they grew vast quantities of produce for family, friends and neighbors alike. After Joe's retirement, the couple enjoyed traveling and exploring the country.  She liked cards and board games and enjoyed spending time playing with family and friends.

Betty was first and foremost a homemaker and she took great pride in her home which she built together with her husband. She loved her family deeply and her happiest times were when she was surrounded by her family. She will be truly missed.

Betty is survived by her loving husband of 71 years Joseph J. Ponessa Sr.; children Virginia Ponessa, Saratoga Springs, NY; Rosanne Sammler (David), Greenfield Center, NY; Joseph Ponessa, Jr. (Melissa Paquet), Saratoga Springs, NY; Barbara Schallehn (William), Porter Corners, NY; John Ponessa (Kathy), Greenfield Center, NY; one sister, Grace French, Witherbee, NY; a brother, Frances Gumlaw (Monika), Munich, Germany; and many nieces and nephews. She was cherished by her 9 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. Along with her parents she is predeceased by 10 brothers and sisters.

Betty's family would like to extend their sincere thanks and appreciation to the caring staff at The Wesley Health Care Center where she resided for the past several months.

Relatives and friends may call from 9-10:30am, Friday, December 10, 2021 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518 584-5373).

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11am, Friday, December 10, 2021 at St. Clements Church, 231 Lake Avenue.  Burial will follow in the family plot at St. Peter's Cemetery, West Ave.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation in Betty's name to the Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com