Betty Thompson Obituary

Betty Louise (Gabbard) Thompson, age 86, went to be with her Lord and Savior after a long fight with breast cancer on October 28, 2025.
Betty was born in Pryor, Oklahoma, and grew up in Afton. Throughout her life, she lived in several communities, including Vinita, Oklahoma, and Pharr, Texas, where she shared a home with her son and daughter-in-law, Ivett, before returning to Miami, Oklahoma, where she spent her final years.
Betty dedicated her career to caring for others as a mental health aide, home health aide, and nursing home caregiver. Her true passion, however, was helping people beyond her professional life. She devoted countless hours to volunteering with The Salvation Army and her church, where her faith guided everything she did. Betty dearly loved her church family and cherished the fellowship, worship, and friendships that filled her life with purpose and joy. Her church community was a source of strength and belonging for her, and she gave back through prayer, encouragement, and acts of service that touched many lives.
Betty also treasured her many close friends, who became extended family over the years. Whether sharing coffee and conversation, lending a listening ear, or offering words of comfort, she built deep and lasting connections. Those who knew her will remember her for her gentle spirit, warm smile, and remarkable ability to make everyone feel loved and valued.
Betty married her high school sweetheart, Gerald Dean Thompson, in 1956 and they shared 36 years before he preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Silas Miller and Martha (Warren) Gabbard; one brother, Glenn Gabbard; and one sister, Helen Rice.
She is survived by her daughter, Cindy Riley, and special companion, Bob Johnston; her son, Gerald Thompson, and his wife, Ivett, of Pharr, Texas; and her grandchildren, Nathan Riley and wife, Dulcinea, of Claremore, Oklahoma; Christy Thompson of Bloomington, Illinois; and Jessica Thompson and loving partner, Gabriel Rodriguez of McAllen, Texas. She is also survived by two great-granddaughters, Anya Riley and Amelia Rodriguez.
Betty is fondly remembered by her former son-in-law of 34 years, Dale Riley, who remained a close part of her life.
Betty's legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire all who knew her. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is now at peace, reunited with her loved ones who went before her, and embraced in the everlasting love of her Savior.
A celebration of life will be held at Mound Valley Baptist Church and will be announced at a later date.