Mary E. “Betty” (Leonard) Blackburn, 92, of Boynton Beach Florida, wife of the late Samuel S. Blackburn, Jr., passed away Wednesday, January 29, 2020 surrounded by her beloved family. Betty was born June 12, 1927 in Brooklyn, daughter of the late Francis and Mary (Callahan) Leonard. Betty grew up in Great Neck, NY and then lived in Avon, CT and Cape Cod, MA for over 50 years before moving to Florida. Betty was a graduate of the Flower Fifth Avenue Hospital School of Nursing and was a Registered Nurse for over 30 years at Saint Mary Home, West Hartford. Betty leaves her children: Sam “Skip” and Karen Blackburn of Willimantic, CT; Tegan Blackburn of Weatogue, CT; Richard “Biff” Blackburn (predeceased 1975); Stacey and Bob Pennington of Coventry, CT; Mairgreg “Greg” Blackburn of Lake Worth, FL; Marybeth and Bill Buehler of Canton, CT; Len and Susan Blackburn of Ballston Spa, NY; Stephanie and Jay Wiley of Boynton Beach, FL; Heather Brooks of Unionville, CT. Betty is survived by 21 beloved grandchildren and a great-granddaughter. Betty's greatest love and joy was her family, especially spending time in Cape Cod with her children and grandchildren. Betty will be remembered by her grandkids as the sweetest, sharpest grandmother who would always tell you, “put the books down and enjoy each day.” Betty nurtured and cared for her large family, but also embodied Mother Theresa’s words, “Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier.” Betty enjoyed endless summers at the Briarcliff Swim Club and the neighborhood annual Look Park outing. Betty along with Sam treasured our family camping trips throughout New England. Betty enjoyed playing tennis as well as following the sport. Betty made the trip of a lifetime with Sam to Switzerland and throughout Europe. From Florida to Cape Cod or anywhere in between, Betty could be found in the sunshine at the ocean embracing the peace and serenity. There are no calling hours. A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 AM on Saturday, February 8th at the Church of Saint Ann, 289Arch Road in Avon. Burial will follow in St. Ann’s Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Trustbridge Hospice 5300 East Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL 33407 who lovingly cared for Betty. The Vincent Funeral Home of Canton is caring for the arrangements. Please visit Betty’s Book of Memories at www.vincentfuneralhome.com for online tributes.