Ms. Betty Jean Derr Thompson

Betty Jean Derr-Thompson, 80, died peacefully on September 30, 2015 in Frye Regional Hospital, Hickory, NC. She was born on October 3, 1934 in Hickory, NC, to the late Guilford Derr and Alda Mae Adams-Derr .

As a little girl, she loved attending school and reading. Her ability to educate and lead others in such a unique way, was a talent that only came natural to her. Jean attended Ridgeview High School in Hickory, North Carolina. She was the graduate of Winston Salem State University, in 1956, where she received her degree and became a teacher.

In 1963 , Jean married her best friend and sweet heart, Robert Thompson. While Robert was in the Navy , they traveled the world and lived in Italy and Hawaii. Jean became passionate about Italian and French cuisine and took pride in her extensive collection on cook books. After serving for 20 years , Jean and Robert shipped back home to North, Carolina. She became a magnificent and dedicated Special Education Teacher for the Hickory Public School, for 30 long years.

Mrs. Thompson was a member of Morning Star First Baptist Church where she served in many roles, choir member and church treasurer for many years.

Mrs. Thompson is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and sister, Alda Sanders. Jean is survived by her nephew , his wife and kids, Jeffrey , Leisha, Jessica and Jeffrey Jr.; her niece Mia and daughter Morgan ,and brother in law Bobby Thompson. She also leaves behind numerous of loving relatives and dear friends .

On Friday, October 16, 2015, a wake will be held from 6-8pm at Morning Star Baptist Church , 126 4th Avenue Southwest, Hickory, North Carolina. On Saturday, October 17, 2015, a graveside funeral services will be held at 11am at Catawba Funeral Home and Memorial Park 3060 Highway 70, SE in Hickory, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations the 126 4th Ave. SW. Hickory, North Carolina 28601 W.E. Lytle Scholarship of Morning Star Baptist Church.

Condolences may be left at www.catawbamemorialpark.com.

The Thompson family is under the care of Catawba Memorial Park, Funerals & Cremations.