Betty Lou Thompson

GUTTENBERG, IOWA

Betty Lou Thompson passed away on Monday, September 14, 2026, surrounded by family. Born on August 14, 1957, in Guttenberg, Iowa, to Walter and Edith (Ferguson) Miller. She was raised in Millville, Iowa, and grew up as one of 13 children. Her large family helped shape the person she would become.

On October 5, 1979, Betty married Thomas Edward Thompson. The two met at Trademark Homes in Guttenberg, Iowa, and went on to build a life and family together. Betty was a devoted mother to their three children, John, Megan, and Terri. She was incredibly proud of her children and the lives they built for themselves. She rarely missed an event or activity her children participated in and was always there to support and cheer them on.

Betty found joy in many of life's simple pleasures. She enjoyed attending local Betty luncheons, listening to her favorite music-including Eddie Rabbitt, the Beach Boys, and Elvis-and taking rides in her convertible. She especially enjoyed putting her convertible in the homecoming parades.

Betty spent more than 20 years working at Ertl's and later more than 20 years at G&G Living Centers. She met her two lifelong friends, Melissa and Judy, while working at Ertl's. Their friendship grew into a special bond filled with laughter, adventures, and cherished memories. Anyone who knew Betty knew she was always thinking about others. A running joke at every holiday was that there would never be enough food, yet somehow there were always plenty of leftovers! Betty was well known for her sugar cookies, pickled beets, and turkey and dressing, which she lovingly made and shared with family and friends. Looking after the people around her came naturally, and she was always willing to put their needs before her own.

In recent years, Betty discovered a love for going to the casino, which quickly became an activity she really enjoyed. She also loved spending time with Luna; the rat terrier mix she shared with Tom and especially cherished their snuggles. Betty's laugh and smile were familiar to so many. She enjoyed visiting with people throughout the community, chatting and catching up with familiar faces wherever she went. Betty also treasured the memories she made traveling with her family. She took a special trip with her daughters to Mackinac Island, where they enjoyed the beauty of the lake and made lasting memories together. She also traveled to Niagara Falls with her husband, a trip she always talked about.

Betty will be remembered for her love of family, her sense of humor, her warm smile, and the many connections she made throughout her life. She was a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, and caregiver who touched countless lives. The family would like to extend a special and heartfelt thank you to the staff of St. Croix Hospice and Guttenberg Hospital for the compassionate care, kindness, and support they provided to Betty and her family. Their care and dedication will always be remembered and appreciated.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Morris Funeral Home in Guttenberg, Iowa, with a private burial to follow for close family and friends. Betty leaves behind a lifetime of love, laughter, and memories that will be cherished by all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Morris Funeral Home (Dyersville, Guttenberg, Garnavillo, Monticello, Holy Cross) is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.