Elizabeth "Betty" Thompson

It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of Betty (Barney) Thompson, a devoted mother, grandmother, educator, and friend, on October 20, 2025, at the age of 82.
Born on January 7, 1943, in Malone, NY, Betty dedicated her life to nurturing young minds and creating lasting impacts in the community. She graduated from Plattsburgh State University, Class of 1965, where she discovered her passion for teaching and building meaningful connections through education.
Betty proudly spent the majority of her 40-year teaching career at Margate Elementary School (Margate, FL), where she became a beloved and familiar face to students, colleagues, and families alike. Known for her warm smile, gentle guidance, and creative teaching style, she made every child feel seen, valued, and capable of greatness. Over the decades, her classroom became a second home for hundreds of students. Many of them later returned as parents themselves, eager for their own children to be taught by the same extraordinary teacher who had shaped their early years. Her impact stretched across generations, leaving an enduring legacy in the Margate community.
One of her proudest professional moments came when she received the Teacher of the Year award from Margate Elementary. This recognition reflected not only her dedication to her students but also the deep respect and admiration of her colleagues. She carried that honor with tremendous pride, knowing it symbolized a lifetime of meaningful work.
While she cherished her teaching career, her most treasured title was "Grammy." Her grandchildren, Ben and Beth, were the true joy of her life. From the moment they were born, she embraced every opportunity to be part of their world, always cheering the loudest and offering a warm hug at the end of the day.
To Ben and Beth, she wasn't just their grandmother - she was their biggest fan, their storyteller, and their safe place. Her love for them was boundless, and the bond they shared brought her immeasurable happiness. She often said that being a grandmother was one of life's greatest gifts.
After retirement, in her later years, Betty continued her lifelong calling to teach and give by volunteering her time at Holy Family School in Malone, NY. It was a beautiful full-circle moment, a teacher to the end, sharing knowledge and comfort wherever she was.
She will be remembered for her unwavering kindness, gentle spirit, and the legacy of love and learning she leaves behind.
Betty is survived by her children: Chris Thompson (Sheri Thompson) and Katherine Thompson (Rick Chitwood); grandchildren: Ben and Beth; her former husband, Jim Thompson; siblings: Judy Elmer, Jim Barney, and Wendy Levenson; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Royas and Martha Barney.
Service will be held at Frary Funeral Home on November 24, 2025, at 10:00 am in Malone, NY with Pastor Rich Hanlon officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Margate Elementary School Betty Thompson Memorial Fund where her legacy will continue to impact the lives of current students. Once on the website please scroll down to click on the link titled "Donations for Betty Thompson Memorial Fund".
Online condolences can be made to the Thompson family at www.fraryfuneralhome.com