Betty Guthrie Thompson

Betty Guthrie Thompson, 84, of Danville, VA died on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at Roman Eagle Rehabilitation and Health Care Center after a decline in health over several years. Betty was born on March 17, 1941, daughter of the late Henry Guthrie and Catherine Johnson Guthrie. Born and raised in Danville, she began her career working as a freelance court reporter for years and finished her career with the Danville Circuit Court. She was also a member of Unity Presbyterian Church. On May 27, 1961, she married Elmer Noel Thompson, Jr. In addition to her husband, Betty is survived by her son, Dr. Elmer Noel Thompson, III (Karen), Ridgeley, WV; her daughter, Anne Daniel (Keith), Kannapolis, NC; and her grandchildren, Will Daniel, Greenville, NC; Dr. John Thompson (Lindsay), Philadelphia, PA; and Caitlin Thompson, Arlington, VA. Betty embraced life with joy and warmth, finding beauty in every moment and never meeting a stranger along the way. She met the love of her life, Noel, as a young teenager after Noel’s father, a man with only sons, told him he should talk to the sweet girl down the street - because he’d always wanted a daughter. That introduction was the start of a beautiful love story that would span a lifetime. Betty was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, and grandmother, always cheering from the sidelines and offering her unwavering support. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy. Betty had a playful spirit and a deep love for tradition, especially at Christmastime. From the day after Thanksgiving through Christmas Day, she proudly wore one of her beloved Christmas sweaters, spreading holiday cheer wherever she went. The beach was one of her happiest places, with Emerald Isle holding a special place in her heart during cherished family trips. Throughout her life, Betty was blessed with lasting friendships, none more treasured than her beloved “Steel Magnolias.” Her kind spirit, generous heart, and zest for life touched all who knew her. Betty’s life was full of love, laughter, and grace - a beautiful example of a life well lived. Her family would like to thank her amazing friends, sitters, the staff of the Kernodle Clinic, and Roman Eagle for the care she received as her health declined over the last two years. A celebration of life service for Betty will be conducted on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. at the Wrenn-Yeatts Westover Chapel with the Reverend Jeff Wright and Reverend John Losee officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial donations be made to Unity Presbyterian Church, 835 Franklin Turnpike, Danville, VA 24540. Wrenn-Yeatts Westover Chapel is respectfully serving the Thompson family.

Betty Guthrie Thompson

March 17, 1941 - April 8, 2025