Elizabeth Montgomery

December 19, 1937 - May 20, 2026

Elizabeth Thorp Montgomery passed peacefully on May 20, 2026 at Commonwealth Senior Living in Christiansburg, VA. She is preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Mary Thorp, her beloved son, David “Buddy” Montgomery, Jr. and special friend, Peter Blum, III.

Betty is survived by her daughter, Christine Montgomery Whitelaw (Edwin).

Betty was born in Greensboro, but spent most of her early childhood living in different places with the majority of time in Syracuse, NY. Her family later returned to Greensboro where Betty attended Greensboro Senior High School.

Betty cherished her role as a mom creating culinary delights, making holidays special, sewing outfits and amazing Halloween costumes along with all the other parental joys. When her children were well into their school years, Betty decided to join the work force, taking a part-time job with Hickory Farms. She later accepted a full time position at the Greensboro Historical Museum as the the gift shoppe manager where she was able to put her creative talents to good use. During her years managing the gift shoppe, Betty became actively involved with the Museum Store Association where she held the office of president during her participation and loved being able to travel all over the country to meetings and markets. Betty remained at the museum for 27 years, forming precious enduring bonds with other members of the staff and volunteers.

Through her work related endeavors Betty discovered pottery and “fell in love”, purchasing pieces for the shoppe and collecting it for herself while befriending many of the potters. Her iconic purple truck could frequently be seen en route to and from the potteries in Seagrove, NC.

Entertaining and feeding people was probably Betty’s greatest passion. Whether it was hosting friends and family at her home (always having room for “strays” especially at holiday meals) or voluntarily catering meals for various groups. Betty especially loved volunteering for HorsePower Therapeutic Learning Center and was “chief cook and bottle washer” at HorsePower for many years.

Besides cooking and entertaining, during her retirement years, Betty relished going on adventures with Peter, working in her yard and doting on the cats (and dogs) that were always present in her life.

A memorial service will be held at 1 PM on Friday, June 26, 2026. It will take place at Hanes Funeral Service on Elm St. in Greensboro, NC. A reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Alley Cat Rescue.