Betty Vaden Thompson

Betty Vaden Thompson was born on March 4, 1939, to James Howard and Leake Vaden in Leaksville, NC.

Best known as the proud owner of Dingles Coral, a local restaurant where everyone felt like family, she poured her heart into serving her customers—not just with meals, but with warmth, kindness, and a welcoming smile. Her passion for hospitality touched countless lives and made her establishment a beloved gathering place in Rocky Mount.

Together with her beloved husband, she also ran a vibrant western clothing business—an extension of their shared passion and creativity. Their unique style and dedication built a loyal customer base and brought a touch of flair and personality to the local business scene.

Beyond her professional life, she was a devoted wife and mother whose love and care shaped the lives of those closest to her. Her friendships were deep and loyal, rooted in honesty, compassion, and joy.

An animal lover through and through, she treated every creature in her care as family, and her home was always full of love—both human and furry.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, James Howard and Leake Vaden, and her husband, Gene Thompson. Her older Brother, James “Buddy” Howard Vaden Jr, her sons Byron Hill and Johnny Rose, and her Grandsons Jamie Rose and Jonathan Rose.

She leaves to mourn her kids, Matthew Wayne Hill (Connie), Kimberly Dawn Hill, Robert “Bobby” James Rose; 2 sisters, Linda Vaden (William) and Wanda Vaden, 1 brother, Tom Vaden (Julia), 10 grandchildren, Braxton Hill and Ashley Hill, Matthew Hill and Mark Hill, Gregory Reynolds (Cherdon), Amy Reynolds-Anderson (Lorenzo), Shawn Hill (Nikeyta), and James Simmons Jr., Zackary Rose (Olivia), and Hailey Rose, 2 nephews Lee Newman and Jeff Vaden, 4 nieces Sarah Williams, Paula Vaden, Karen Vaden, and Gretchen Vaden and a host of great-grandchildren.

She leaves behind a legacy of hard work, unwavering love, compassion, and community spirit. She will be missed more than words can express and remembered always for the love she gave and the lives she touched.

Acknowledgments

The family of Betty Thompson wishes to express their deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support during this difficult time.

Your kind words, visits, and shared memories have brought comfort and reminded us of just how many lives she touched.

We are forever grateful.