Vary Family

Betty was a loved and loving wife, mother, teacher, and educator who was actively involved in the lives of her family, students, coworkers, and friends. As a strong supporter of her college, State University of New York at Brockport, she served as the President of the Alumni Association and as a contributor to the scholarship funds. She was the creator of an educational concept that resulted in the construction of the unique and beautiful Northwood Elementary School in Hilton, NY. Her service role to all the community makes her a joyful human being with special happiness to see her children and grandchildren productive and happy members of the human race. She is well known for her loving kindness, radiant countenance, contagious enthusiasm, and determination to overcome any obstacle. (May 2007)

Betty graduated from Brockport Normal School in ’36, and the College in ’48 (BA) and ’57 (MA); taught at Seneca and Iroquois Schools in West Irondequoit; then became the first female administrator in the Hilton Central School district and later the first principal of Northwood School, which she helped design. Betty was highly esteemed in the field of education and a 60-year member of the Alpha Alpha Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma International (DKG). She also served as President of the Brockport Alumni Association (‘65-‘67), and was a member of the Hall of Heritage and Circle of Presidents. Betty and Bill married on 23 August 1941, were members of the Bahá’í Faith since the early 70s, retired to Florida in ’71. In 2013, Betty and daughter Joanne moved to Maryland to be closer to family. Betty leaves behind a proud legacy of contribution, kindness, and encouragement of family members, students, staff, and colleagues to reach their potential and go after their dreams. Her loving reminder, “Be alert! Be safe! Be happy!” will echo long through the years. Family and friends are invited to attend Betty’s Gratitude Memorial Service at the Quest Elementary School, 225 West Ave., Hilton, New York 14468 on Saturday, 8 August at 10:30 AM. Prior private burial was at Parma Union Cemetery, Hilton, with Thomas E. Burger Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Betty’s memory may be made to a scholarship sponsored by the Alpha Alpha Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma [checks payable to FLACE, fbo Alpha Alpha Awards, with memo " Betty D. Vary Award" and sent to Annie Tran, Treasurer, Alpha Alpha Chapter, 100 Battle Green Drive, Rochester NY 14624]; or to the faith community or charity of your choice.