Elizabeth “Betty” Edna Holdridge [92] of Williamsburg PA, formerly of New Berlin NY, passed away on March 7, 2016 at Epworth Manor, Tyrone PA, where she had been a resident since 2012.
Betty was born on January 15, 1924 in Fayetteville NY, daughter of Willard John and Anna Laura Niles. Her youth was spent with relatives Donald W. and Ruth C. (Welch) Slentz, West Edmeston NY. Betty graduated from the Leonardsville High School, and following graduation attended business school.
She was united in marriage to Carlton Adams Holdridge on August 25, 1945 in West Edmeston. Together they operated Holdridge’s General Store in West Edmeston for 22 years. Through that time, she also worked for Preferred Mutual Insurance Company, New Berlin.
After the closing of the general store, Betty became a secretary in Norwich for GLA Laboratories. She later became the executive director of Opportunities for Chenango in Norwich, and served in that capacity until her retirement.
Betty was a member of the Columbus Community Church and worked diligently in the many activities at The Whitney House, especially the annual Harvest Dinner. She and her husband founded the monthly luncheon gathering of Elder Kin, which continues in Columbus. Betty served as the president of Ladies Aid-Good Neighbors, was an ardent member of the Altar Guild, and was chairman of the Food Pantry in Columbus. Betty was known in the greater New Berlin area for a gentle spirit and the willingness to share in the needs of family and friends.
She is survived by her children: a daughter Patricia and husband William Gordner, Clifton Springs NY; a son D. Michael Holdridge and partner George Dempsie, Williamsburg PA; a brother-in-law: Warren Sholes, Fort Edward; two sisters: Dorothy Burlingham, Chittenango and Barbara Jean Wheeldon, West Winfield. She was predeceased by her husband Carlton in 2013, as well as three brothers and one sister.
Friends will be received on Palm Sunday, March 20 from 9 to 10 AM at the Columbus Community Church, with a memorial service beginning at 10:00 AM in the church sanctuary, with the Rev. Stephen L. Reese, Senior Pastor, officiating. A luncheon will be served by Good Neighbors for family and friends following the memorial service. Burial will be made in the family lot in Fairview Cemetery, New Berlin.
Memorial contributions may be sent to Columbus Community Church, 4311 State Highway 80, New Berlin NY 13411.