Elizabeth “Betsy” Phillips December 17, 2024

Betsy Giancola Phillips, aged 75, passed away peacefully on September 7th, 2024. She was born in 1948 in Rochester, NY and graduated from Penfield High School in 1966. She went on to attend Cazenovia College and American University. Her education focused on art and design, including photography, which became a lifelong passion. 

In addition to developing her artistic talents, Betsy dedicated many years to helping children and families through her work at Child Protective Services for Monroe County. She often referred to her double life, one as a case worker for children and one as an artist. 

Betsy was deeply involved in the Rochester art community. She served as the president of Camera Rochester, leading and inspiring a growing community of photographers. She was a founding partner of Image City Gallery, showing her images continually for 16 years. Her design finesse was greatly respected, sought after during exhibit hanging and for promotional publications. She raised the art of imaging by curating exhibits which included hundreds of area photographers. Betsy was also an active member of the Arena Art Group where she worked diligently to keep photo imaging at the same level of appreciation as painting and sculpture. She strived to mix media in her own work, and loved bringing three dimensions to her pieces. 

In recent years, Betsy became an integral part of the Zydeco dance community. Her love of dance and music brought her great happiness. She was an avid fan of the Rochester International Jazz Festival and let nothing stop her from attending. She was learning to play the ukulele. 

Betsy was a sweet, generous, and creative spirit.  She was inspired by nature’s grace and urban puzzles. She honored the new and the worn. She was equally at home at the beach and in the woods. She loved to walk in solitude or with friends. She spread joy and shared in the joy and success of others. 

Betsy is predeceased by her parents James and Mary Giancola and her husband Jerry Phillips. She is survived by her partner photographer Philip Halla, her daughter JoAnna (Aaron) Roddis, and granddaughters Zoe and Olympia; and siblings Bill Giancola, Vikki Wagner, and Mary (Mark) Letson.

Over the last several years Betsy had many transfusions made possible by the American Red Cross. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in her memory to the American Red Cross, Greater Rochester Chapter. 

A celebration of Betsy’s life will be held on Sunday, October 6th at Olmsted Lodge in Highland Park at 2pm.