Betty Patterson Marcy, 94

Betty left this world January 5, 2026, in her home at Honeysuckle Senior Living. Betty entered the world January 23, 1931, in Mitchell, Nebraska, the youngest of 14 children. The family moved to Idaho in 1936, making their home in Paradise Valley. She was in the Bonners Ferry High School Class of 1948.  She earned her diploma through the University of Idaho extension program in 1958. 

Betty married Merrill Marcy in 1947. They made their home in Naples, where they literally built their house board by board, payday to payday. In that home they raised their children: Marla, Dale, and Midge. In 1964, they moved the house to Moravia where they lived until Merrill’s death in 2020.

Betty was a multitalented woman who was successful at everything she tried. She had a large garden and canned or froze the produce. She enjoyed seeing the storage shelves filled with colorful jars of fruits and vegetables. She loved growing beautiful flowers both indoors and out. Her favorites were lilies.  Betty was a fabulous cook and a wonderful seamstress. For years she made clothes for the family, specializing in outfits for her daughters.

Betty was active in the Naples Community Church and volunteered at the Naples School. She wrote a column for the Bonner Ferry Herald called “Naples Notes”. Betty was a numbers whiz and a gifted musician. She could pick up any instrument and within minutes was able to play it. She had a beautiful alto voice and shared her musical talents at church, grange dances, and senior gatherings.

Betty had two passions: her music and her family. Betty worked outside the home for several years, but her favorite job title was “Grandma”. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandsons, nieces, and nephews. 

Betty’s final rest will be at the Paradise Valley Cemetery.      

Please visit Betty’s online memorial and sign her guestbook at yatesfuneralhomes.com.