Beloved Nashua Teacher Betty Burpee Dies at 82

Longtime educator remembered for bringing music and enthusiasm to the classroom

Mar. 24, 2026 at 6:20am

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Elizabeth 'Betty' Burpee (Richard), a beloved Nashua, New Hampshire teacher who spent nearly 40 years educating generations of students, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2026 at the age of 82. Known for her boundless energy, musical teaching methods, and dedication to her students, Burpee left a lasting impact on the community.

Why it matters

Burpee's passing marks the end of an era for Nashua's public school system, as she was a beloved fixture who taught not only students, but their children as well. Her unique approach to education, centered around music and enthusiasm, inspired countless young minds over the decades and exemplified the power of passionate, creative teachers.

The details

Born in Nashua in 1944, Burpee spent nearly 40 years teaching in the city's school system. She was known for incorporating songs and music into her lessons, believing there was no subject that couldn't be improved with a tune. Burpee's students often left her classes able to sing their prepositions or other key lessons. Even after retiring, Burpee remained active in the community, supporting charities like Experience Camps that she and her late husband Dick had proudly backed.

  • Burpee passed away peacefully on March 20, 2026.
  • A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, March 27th.

The players

Elizabeth 'Betty' Burpee (Richard)

An 82-year-old beloved Nashua teacher who spent nearly 40 years educating generations of students with her unique, music-focused teaching methods.

Richard 'Dick' Burpee

Betty Burpee's husband of 49 years, who passed away prior to her.

Jonathan Burpee

Betty Burpee's son, who lives in Pembroke.

Jennifer Grantham

Betty Burpee's daughter, who lives in Nashua.

Experience Camps

A charity that Betty and Dick Burpee proudly supported, to which the family is requesting donations in lieu of flowers.

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What’s next

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Betty's life and legacy at calling hours on Thursday, March 26th from 4 to 7 p.m., and a Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, March 27th at 9:30 a.m.

The takeaway

Betty Burpee's passing marks the end of an era for Nashua's public schools, as she was a beloved, one-of-a-kind educator who inspired generations of students with her unique, music-infused teaching methods and boundless enthusiasm for learning.