Former Westport Selectwoman Betty Lou Cummings Dies At 90

WESTPORT, CT — Betty Lou Cummings, a community leader and former Westport selectwoman, died Jan. 3 at the age of 90.

Cummings lived in Westport for nearly 60 years, during which time she made an indelible mark on the town through her spirit, leadership, volunteerism and service.

First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker issued the following statement on Cummings' passing:

It was with great sadness that I learned of Betty Lou Cummings’ passing. Westport has lost an exceptional member of our community, and she will always hold a place alongside the great contributors to our Town. Her cheer, her infectious happiness, and her love of life and community were unmatched. She will be remembered and appreciated forever.

Betty Lou’s involvement and generous commitment to Westport was unquestioned and steadfast, beginning with her participation in the resistance to having a nuclear power plant built on Cockenoe Island. She was one of the leaders of that movement and, today, we have Betty Lou, among others, to thank for helping to maintain the natural beauty of that town asset. She was a pioneer in female representation in Westport, and after she served roles as Second Selectman and as an RTM member, she continued to actively and passionately champion for programs and civic issues that affected the entire community.

This included, but certainly was not limited to, volunteering and fundraising for the Westport Library and the Westport Center for Senior Activities and organizing events for CLASP Homes. For decades, and with an enthusiasm that was unrivaled, Betty Lou proudly judged the Memorial Day Parade floats and organized the Super Bowl parties at the Senior Center.

I have so many personal fond memories of Betty Lou at many of these special events. With her pom-poms and pigtails, she unabashedly exuded joy. I so enjoyed her laughter and her company, but mostly, I respected her ability to engage everyone and make an entire room a bit brighter with her presence.

The Town of Westport has been fortunate to have had Betty Lou as one of its leading citizens. I extend my deepest condolences to her family, friends, and the many residents whose lives she enhanced and touched.

Services for Cummings are scheduled for Friday, and are being arranged by Harding Funeral Home.