Elizabeth “Betty” (Gallagher) Kuhnly, also known fondly as “Z”, 76, of Simsbury, wife of the late Barry David Kuhnly, passed away peacefully at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford on Sunday, July 17, 2016. She was born July 27, 1939 in Hartford, daughter of the late Francis James and Mary (Vincent) Gallagher and was a life long resident of Simsbury. Betty worked in Medical Records at both McLean Home and the Governor’s House in Simsbury while also working for her brother at Connecticut Building Specialties for many years. Betty’s proudest accomplishment was coaching the Cheerleading Team at Saint Mary’s School for over 40 years. Her inspirational leadership built character and confidence in the lives of so many young women and every cheerleader continues to hold a special place in her heart. Years later, as a proud participant of the LIVESTRONG program in Granby, CT, “Z” continued to demonstrate the power of laughter and a positive attitude on your mind, body and soul. Her strength and perseverance is a true inspiration. A lover of all sports, her favorite way to spend time was watching her grandchildren play. As their greatest supporter, there was no distance too far to travel or time that couldn’t be met. There is no doubt that Simsbury Youth Hockey has lost their greatest fan. Though there was no time of year that Betty didn’t enjoy, she looked forward to summer parties at “the pool” the most, serving her famous ziti sauce, and enjoying life to the fullest with her family and friends. She brought laughter to every situation and embraced life by following her personal mission to “make a new friend every day”. She is survived by her three children, Vicki Lowndes and her husband Michael of Simsbury, Barry Scott Kuhnly and his wife Joan of Granby and Kelle Becconsall and her husband Mike of Simsbury; her ten grandchildren, Michael, Kylee and Jeff Lowndes, Nicole, Kathleen, Megan, Samuel and James Kuhnly and Riley and Jack Becconsall; her brother, Jim Gallagher and his wife Paula of Simsbury and many special nieces, nephews and dear friends. She was predeceased by a brother, Francis James Gallagher, Jr. On behalf of the entire family, we would like to thank Dr. James Vredenburgh and the staff at St. Francis Cancer Center. Especially Ericka, Joy, Melissa, Kim, Linda and the entire team whom we wish we could mention all by name as you all have become extended family. Friends may call at the Vincent Funeral Home, 880 Hopmeadow Street in Simsbury on Thursday, July 21st from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Funeral will be Friday, July 22nd, 9:15 AM from the funeral home followed by a Mass of Christian Burial, 10:00 AM at St. Mary’s Church in Simsbury. Burial will follow in Simsbury Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to LIVESTRONG, Granby YMCA, 97 Salmon Brook Road, Granby, CT 06035. Please visit Betty’s “Book of Memories” at www.vincentfuneralhome.com for online condolences.