Betty Mcpherson Thompson

Betty M. Thompson, 84, a lifelong resident of Wilson County, Kansas, died Friday, September 5, 2008 at the Pinnacle Ridge Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Olathe, Kansas. She was born December 21, 1923, the tenth of twelve children born to Silas Oliver and Jennie (Garner) McPherson. On December 17, 1941 in Buffalo, Kansas, she married McCager Thompson. He preceded her in death February 12, 1978. To this union, five children were born. Betty was very involved in many community activities. She was a Past Matron of Mistletoe Chapter #35, Order of the Eastern Star, where she was a member for more than 30 years. She was a member of the Grange for 36 years where she was the first woman Master of Baker Valley Grange. Betty was a Regent of the Neodesha Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution, and also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. Being a former 4-H member herself, she served as a community and project leader for over 24 years and was a representative on the Wilson County Extension Council and on the Wilson County Fair Association. Betty was a charter member of the Wilson County Historical Society and was a member for over 25 years. She was also an active member of the Bible Baptist Church in Fredonia. Betty was best known for two things--always wearing a hat to complete her outfit and her strong affiliation with the Democratic Party. A life member of the Wilson County Democratic Club and the Kansas Federated Democratic Women"s Club, Betty held offices at the local, district and state levels. She worked at the local Democratic Headquarters, actively campaigned for many candidates at all levels and worked at many voting precincts. Her Survivors include: Five children: Mary Ellen Varvel of Bismarck, ND McCager M. Thompson of Lincoln, NE Jennie B. Winn of Kansas City, KS Curtis C. Thompson of Ponca City, OK Vienna M. Rose of Cherryvale, KS Four siblings: Bruce McPherson of Altoona, KS Crystal Jump of Parson, KS Doris Wever of Bella Vista, AR Billie Carleton of Crystal Lake, MN 15 Grandchildren and 4 Great Grandchildren She was preceded in death by her parents and three brothers, Erbie, Frank and Paul; and four sisters, Blossom McPherson, Mary Marigold McPherson, Eulalia Smith and Zeda Veillon. Private family burial at Farmington Cemetery was held Saturday, September 6, 2008. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, October 5, 2008 at 2:30 P.M. at Timmons Funeral Home Chapel. A memorial has been established in Betty"s name with the D.A.R. and may be sent to the funeral home. Family condolences may be sent to www.timmonsfuneralhome.com. Timmons Funeral Home, PO Box 168, Fredonia, KS 66736 is in charge of the arrangements.