Margaret Betty Stone slipped away peacefully on Christmas Day, December 25, 2025. She chose the quiet magic of the holiday to make her graceful exit.

Betty was born on October 16, 1928, one of fourteen children of Osmer "Joker" and Myrtle Beadle. She was preceded in death by the love of her life, Thomas Stone, whom she married on September 29, 1947, in South New Berlin, NY. Betty devoted 30 years of loyal service to Scintilla, in Sidney, NY.

Betty was the proud matriarch of a large and lively family. She is survived by her children Barbara (David) Odell, Russell (Bonnie) Stone, and Lori (Charlie) Sutton; her 11 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and 4 great great grandchildren who adored her; and her two beloved sisters. Born one of fourteen children, Betty learned early how to hold her own, and she did so with unmatched wit, grit, and charm for 97 unforgettable years.

A true lover of beauty, Betty could never resist a flower. If she drove to town, you could bet she'd return with a new plant. Her yard was her sanctuary, and her garden bloomed with the same vibrancy she carried in her spirit.

Betty had the unmistakable personality of Betty White, sharp, funny, and unpredictable. She had a spark that kept everyone on their toes. In the summertime, when you drove by Betty's house, Elvis would be blasting so loud you'd swear she was hosting her own Jailhouse Rock right there in the living room.

On Sundays, you would find Betty watching football games. She was an avid Giants and Bills fan, and she always made it entertaining. Even in her final days, she kept everyone laughing with her commentary, especially when she joked that "football isn't a dating game," complete with a sarcastic heart hand gesture in reference to Taylor Swift.

Her classic phrase, "For heaven's sakes," takes on a new meaning now, a gentle reminder of her spirit and the love she carried through every chapter of her life.

As we say goodbye, we like to imagine her reclaiming her rightful place beside her beloved husband. Somewhere out there, he's calling to her once again: "Grab the flashlight, Betty, and jump on the running board so we can see to get home."

There will be a celebration of life on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Mt. Upton Methodist Church.