Elizabeth Ann “Betsy” Kulp

Elizabeth Ann "Betsy" Kulp, 80, of Hendersonville, died on Tuesday, March 5, 2013, at Pardee Hospital after an extended respiratory illness.

She was born in Pittsburgh, PA on Aug. 13, 1932, to Ross and Elizabeth Reed. Betsy grew up in Steelton, Pa., and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in music at Westchester University.

In 1954, Betsy married D.R. Kulp, and supported his career in the Navy. Eventually, they moved to Montville, N.J., where they raised three children. During this time, Betsy played organ and led the choirs at the Montville Reformed Church for more than 20 years.

Betsy was preceded in death by her dear brother, James Reed. She is survived by her husband, D. R. Kulp; daughter, Ann Cucchiara and her husband, Carl; two sons, David Kulp of Pompton Lakes, N.J., and James Kulp and his wife Terri, of Jacksonville; and her sister, Judy and her husband Gary Kaufman. She also leaves behind five grandchildren including , David and Adam Cucchiara; Cassandra, Kimberly, and Ashley Kulp,

Betsy was a resident of Hendersonville for the last 25 years and enjoyed participating and contributing to many service organizations. Betsy was an active volunteer at the Carl Sandburg House, tending to the Connemara goats. Betsy played tennis until she was 76 years old; was a traveling square dancer and has volunteered as an accompanist of the Kenmure Show Chorus. Her humble contributions leave a legacy of care and concern for others in Hendersonville. The love of her life, D.R. Kulp, continues to promote her continual passion for nature, animals, and music.

Betsy wants her friends, colleagues and family to know that she only wanted to make the world a better place through her deeds and actions. Contributions can be made to The Friends of Carl Sandburg at Connemara, PO Box 16, Flat Rock, NC 28731.

A celebration of life service is planned for June 29, 2013. Service times will be announced at a later date.

A register book is available online for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com.

Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center is in charge of arrangements.