Obituary
Betty (Jensen) Hagen, age 95, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on September 27, 2025, in Anna, Texas. Born on October 21, 1929, in Hall, New York, Betty lived a long and resilient life marked by strength, independence, and enduring love for her family.
Calling hours for Betty will be held on Wednesday, October 8 from 6-8 p.m. at the Perkins-Ames Funeral Home, 2583 East Main St., Gorham. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 9 at 1:30 p.m. at the Bethel Baptist Church in Gorham. Burial will follow in Little Church Cemetery in Stanley, New York.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Betty’s honor to Operation Smile, https://www.operationsmile.org/ or to Samaritan’s Purse, https://samaritanspurse.org/memorial-page/betty-hagen-hall-ny.
Betty graduated from Gorham High School in 1948 and further pursued her education at the Rochester Business Institute (class of 1950), equipping herself with the skills that would support her career at Mobil Chemical Co. Her journey was one of perseverance and adaptability—qualities that defined her character and inspired those around her.
Betty was preceded in death by her husbands, Archie Hagen and Ernest Short; her sons Wayne Hagen and Aaron Hagen; as well as her parents and siblings. Despite these profound losses, Betty remained a pillar of strength for those who knew her.
She is lovingly remembered by her children Gene Hagen, Bob (Terri) Hagen, and Sandra Hagen; stepchildren Paul (Sharon) Short, Ruth (Sam) Coney, and Sandra (Don) VanCamp; daughters-in-law, Betsy Hagen and MaryAnn Hagen; along with a legacy of grandchildren and great-grandchildren who carry forward her spirit. Betty is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Known to friends and loved ones as a spunky and independent woman, Betty faced life’s challenges with unwavering determination. Her vibrant personality left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Betty’s love extended beyond her family and friends – known to never meet a mascot or Santa Claus who didn’t deserve a kiss on the cheek. This joyful mischief was a trademark of her personality – something that her loved ones will be blessed to carry on. Betty’s loved ones will also continue to fill bird feeders in her honor, a pastime that Betty enjoyed throughout her life.
In Betty’s last decade, she expressed a desire for well-deserved adventure, experiencing a Gaither Family Gospel Choir Alaskan Cruise, zip lining at Niagara Falls, and even a hot air balloon ride over California wine country.
Please visit www.perkinsamesfuneralhome.com to send a message of condolence to Betty’s Family.
Services
Calling Hours
Perkins-Ames Funeral Home
Stanley, Gorham
Funeral Service
Bethel Baptist Church
Main St, Gorham
Condolences
Germaine Lee from Canandaigua, NY on Oct. 3, 2025
Betty was my neighbor at Wilcox Lane. When I moved there, I had a bumper sticker that said my boss is a Jewish carpenter. She knocked on my door to tell me that she had the same boss. That was my introduction to Betty. She was a wonderful friend and neighbor and will be missed. We know she is home with her Lord, the Jewish carpenter.
Rhonda Bell on Oct. 3, 2025
I am so sorry for family's loss. Betty was an amazing woman and she loved you all so much.
Vickie Loggins (Shultz) from Rydal, Ga on Oct. 4, 2025
I am so sorry to hear of Betty’s passing. She led me to Christ at vacation Bible school when I was 8. I will be forever grateful for the impact she had on my life. I am praying for peace and comfort for your family.
Mark Aikins from Plymouth, Indiana on Oct. 4, 2025
Betty was always a kind and gentle, Christ honoring lady. A constant fixture at Canandaigua Baptist Church. Her boys were playmates of my brother and me and I'm so glad to find she lived such a long and satisfying life before her Master took her home. Please know you are in our prayers and have our best wishes. May the good Lord bless and keep you.