Chevy Chase, Md. — Elizabeth Hopewell “Betty” Swenson, founder of the Friends of St. Benedict, matriarch of her New Hampshire family, died in Washington, DC on Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2016, at the age of 88. Miss Swenson founded the Friends at age 70 to offer programs for living a balanced, simple, and prayerful life by the Rule of St. Benedict. She was its Executive Director from 1997 to 2012, retiring at age 85.

Earlier, Betty worked for Senator Norris Cotton (R, N.H.) and the Senate Commerce Committee. She also became involved with Episcopal Church missionary work in Africa, and the fight against Apartheid. In 1981, Betty helped establish the Canterbury Cathedral Trust in America, before founding The Friends of St. Benedict in 1997. She was honored by Queen Elizabeth II in 1993, and was a Commander of the Order of St. John (CStJ).

Betty loved humor and whimsy. At 81, she made her screen debut as the victim in an episode of the television series “Prison Wives.”

Born Sep. 6, 1927, in Concord, N.H., she was the daughter of Guy Andrew and Mildred (Bolan) Swenson. She studied at the Mary C. Wheeler School, Bennett Junior College, and the University of Lausanne, Switzerland.

Betty is survived by her brother, J. Malcolm Swenson, of Hanover, N.H.; and by many nieces and nephews. She leaves them, a loving body of friends, and spiritual colleagues at Christ Church, Georgetown.