Elizabeth M. Betty Troxell

1916 - 2014

Elizabeth M. (Betty) Troxell, 98, passed away peacefully, Dec. 5, 2014, in Bozeman. Born Nov. 15, 1916 in Steelton, Pa., the daughter of Fred G. and Ethel Mae (Watkins) Troxell.

Elizabeth graduated from Gettysburg High School, then from Gettysburg College in 1940. Each year at college she studied mathematics and sang in the "A Cappella" choir. She also received the Baum Mathematics Prize.

Elizabeth taught mathematics at: Taylor Twp. School in Hustontown, Pa. from 1941-1944, New Holland and Garden Spot High (head of math department) in New Holland, Pa. from 1944-1971, Indiana U. of PA from 1971 until retirement in 1979. During many summers of her teaching career, she attended school in order to earn masters degrees at Penn. State U. and Indiana U. Bloomington. Also, National Science Foundation and Shell Merit scholarships provided additional summer studies at: Case Institute, U. of Delaware, Cornell U., Indiana of PA, and St. Cloud U.

She was an active member of many organizations: Pennsylvania Federation of Business and Professional Women (District Director), Pennsylvania Council of Teachers of Mathematics (workshops throughout the state), National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (workshops and presentations), Mathematics Association of America, National Education Association, Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties, Phi Delta Kappa, Delta Kappa Gamma (local treasurer and PA state finance committee).

Throughout her life Betty sought to improve and inspire teachers, students, and other professional women. Her nieces and nephews were blessed with her sense of humor, holiday antics, and always encouraged to pursue their dreams.

After retirement, Betty traveled extensively and found that she loved Montana's beautiful mountains. Finally she moved to Bozeman to see those mountains for the rest of her life.

She is survived by: two nephews, Robert O. Troxell (Lucinda) of Hanover, Pa., and COL (retired) John F. Troxell (Debra) of Carlisle, Pa.; two nieces, Barbara L. Theroux of Missoula, Mont., and Margaret J. Jaramillo (Frank) of Wenatchee, Wash.; 11 great-nieces and nephews; 10 great-great nieces and nephews; two cousins, William Troxell, Gettysburg, Pa., and Coetta Chalker, Westminster, Md.; and best friend and longtime companion, JoAnne Mueller. She was preceded in death by a sister, Virginia L. Troxell, and two brothers, Robert W. Troxell and Fred R. Troxell.

Many thanks go to the Bearcreek Respite Care Center staff that helped Betty through her final days. Private family interment will be in January at the Evergreen Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pa. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the organization of your choice.

Arrangements are in care of Dokken-Nelson Funeral Service, www.dokkennelson.com.