Helene L. "Betsy" McDonough

Helene L. “Betsy” McDonough (Ross), of Quincy, formerly of South Boston and a longtime resident of Squantum, passed away peacefully at home on June 4, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Betsy was the daughter of the late John J. Ross and Helen Sullivan Ross, and the beloved sister of Dennis J. Ross and his wife Louise, the late John R. "Jack" Ross and his wife Margaret. Raised in South Boston, Betsy graduated from Cardinal Cushing High School with the Class of 1957.

Betsy was the beloved wife of the late Paul F. McDonough; devoted mother of Paul R. McDonough and his wife Deirdre, Brendan J. McDonough, Timothy M. McDonough, and the late John R. “Jack” McDonough. She was the loving grandmother of Emily McDonough, Erin Bergin and her husband Josh, Kelly McDonough, and Maggie McDonough, as well as the cherished great-grandmother of Brooks Bergin. She was also deeply loved by her many cousins, nieces, and nephews, whose friendship and devotion stayed with her throughout her life.

Squantum held a special place in Betsy’s heart. A proud resident for many years, she loved her community and the friendships she made there. She was a longtime parishioner of Star of the Sea Church, a member of the Seaside Gardeners, and enjoyed countless days at Orchard Beach and along the shoreline she called home. Betsy loved gardening, crocheting, bowling, cooking, and a fan all New England sports teams. Above all, her greatest joy was her family.

Betsy will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, deep faith, and unwavering devotion to family. Her presence brought comfort and joy to all who knew her.

Visiting hours will be held at the Alfred D. Thomas Funeral Home, 326 Granite Ave., Milton, on Wednesday, June 10, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Agatha Church, Milton, on Thursday, June 11, at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, West Roxbury.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Helene L. "Betsy" McDonough, please visit our floral store.