Elizabeth Barner

Elizabeth Ann Brackett Barner, 82, died peacefully at her home on Wednesday, August 13,2014. She was born in Fulton, New York to Mildred and Robert Brackett, on January 22, 1932, during a storm so strong the family doctor (who had been called for the baby's delivery) was forced to walk a mile through snowdrifts which made the roads impassable by car.

Her formative years were spent fishing, camping, and helping Grandpa "work the farm" along with her brother Robin and 2 sisters Roberta and Brenda. She was an excellent dancer. It is said that her dancing was so impressive that the other dancers in the room would stop to watch (just like in the movies). She was trained in Tap Dance and Gymnastic Tumbling. She attended college at SUNY Oswego.

Harry met Betty while visiting the college. He attended an Intervarsity-sponsored event, an evening bonfire on the beach. As the group began to sing, a beautiful soprano voice rose above the others. He searched the crowd to find the source of that beautiful voice. He found her and asked if she would harmonize with his singing.

That was the beginning of 61 years of beautiful music.
Betty and Harry had 9 children together and lots of family adventures both happy and bittersweet. Their commitment to their marriage, to their family, and to their God has been multiplied greatly to bless even more people through their children. Ginger, Stephen, Bud (Harry, Jr.) and Susan (deceased) are educators in the public schools. Phil is a pastor. Tim is training for the ministry. Paul is a missionary to the Philippines and the founder of the Barner Learning center. Marie and Bobby (deceased).

Betty was a caregiver. Many parents trusted their little ones to her care. She was a volunteer as well as a leader for many programs and activities. She was a long time member of the Bible Study Fellowship program and a group leader for many years. She was awarded an honor, by the association, as top leader. Betty formed deep and lasting friendships and was a mentor to many. Her life and her love of God have been an inspiration to others. Over the years many have thanked her for her words of encouragement which helped them to take new steps of hope and make life-changing decisions.

The past few years had been difficult for Betty after a stroke left her unable to carry on each day or to lift her beautiful soprano voice. She has now joined Susan, Marie, Bobby and all who have gone before her. She now sees what we cannot see.

From Dad: So now I say farewell, my sweet bride of 61 years. The only woman I have ever loved. The mother of our children. The most important person in my life. My beloved wife, my great joy. Thank-you for the time we had together. We will treasure your memory every moment. Thank-you for what you have done with your life. You did those things because you were you. And not just because you were you, but, because you were a wonderful person. Good-bye my sweet BB.