Brownville, NY, November 22, 2025
News Summary
The Brownville community is in mourning as they celebrate the life of Betty Jean Gill, a dedicated volunteer and long-time resident, who passed away at the age of 97. Betty is remembered for her strong family bonds and commitment to community service, including her love for golf. Her legacy will continue to inspire many.
Community Mourns the Loss of Betty Jean Gill, Longtime Brownville Resident and Volunteer
Brownville, NY – The community of Brownville is coming together to celebrate the remarkable life of Betty Jean (Reynolds) Gill, who passed away peacefully at the age of 97 on Thursday, November 20, 2025. Betty was a beloved figure in Brownville, known for her unwavering dedication to her family and community, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished for generations.
Betty was born on February 13, 1928, in Philadelphia, NY, to her parents, Harry and Dorothy (Weatherup) Reynolds, who have both passed away. Growing up in a close-knit family, Betty flourished academically, graduating from Heuvelton Central School in 1945 and attending Ogdensburg Business School, where she completed her studies in 1946. Her professional life began with a position as a secretary to Attorney Edward Case in Gouverneur, which she held for two years before making a significant career move to General Brown Central School.
Betty served diligently as the secretary to the District Superintendent and later took on the role of Business Manager, a position she held until her retirement in June 1984. Her work was a testament to her commitment to education and her community’s youth.
On August 15, 1946, Betty married her lifetime partner, George Gill, at the Antwerp Congregational Church. Together, they created a loving home and nurtured a tight-knit family. They proudly celebrated 50 years of marriage before George passed away on May 28, 1997. The love shared between Betty and George was truly inspiring and is fondly remembered by those who knew them.
As the last surviving member of her generation in both her and her husband’s families, Betty leaves behind her three adoring children: Diane Gill of Greensboro, NC; Tom Gill and his wife Debbie of Fairport, NY; and Margie and her husband Leon VanWie of Brownville, NY. Betty’s family has grown over the years, boasting seven grandchildren and an impressive 22 great-grandchildren, alongside several nieces and nephews who will certainly carry her memory forward.
Outside of her family life, Betty was a vibrant member of the Brownville community. She enjoyed a range of activities, including golf, bowling, and walking. Spending winters in Myrtle Beach brought her joy, and her movie nights with friends were a cherished pastime. Betty took her community service seriously and was deeply involved with the Brownville United Methodist Church, where she contributed to multiple committees, including the Parsonage, Finance, and Memorial Committees. She also played important roles in organizations such as the United Methodist Women, the Brownville Study Club, and the Brownville/Jefferson Order of the Eastern Star.
Additionally, Betty dedicated her time as a member of the Village of Brownville’s Zoning Board of Appeals and the Housing Advisory Board, showcasing her commitment to improving her community.
The community is invited to pay their respects during a calling hour, which will be held on Saturday, November 29, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12 noon at the Brownville United Methodist Church, followed by a memorial service. A luncheon will take place at the Brownville American Legion after the service, further emphasizing the community’s support for Betty’s family during this time of grief.
The family would like to express their gratitude for the care provided to Betty by the Samaritan Keep Home’s 2nd-floor staff. In lieu of flowers, they invite well-wishers to consider making donations to the Memorial Fund of the Brownville United Methodist Church or the MS Research of Central New York, Inc..
Betty Jean Gill’s legacy of love, kindness, and community service will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of all those she touched throughout her remarkable journey.
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- Legacy: Shirley Wilmer Frye Obituary
- WWNY: Steven W. Gerstenschlager Obituary
- Lundy Funeral Home: William Billy Sale Obituary
- TJP Funeral Home: Gloria Barcume Obituary
- Iseneker Funeral Home: Charles Pound Obituary
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Google Search: Obituary
- Google Scholar: Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Google News: Obituary
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