Mabel Ference

Worcester – Betty Ference, 91, of Worcester, NY, died peacefully at her son's home with her loving family by her side, on Thursday, May 19, 2016. Born on July 22, 1924 in Freeport, NY, Betty was the daughter of the late Clarence and Abby Newhouse and the beloved wife of 50 years to the late Joseph Ference.

In the early 1950's, Betty moved with her husband Joe from Long Island to Gilbertsville, NY to try their hand at farming. Later, Betty and Joe moved to Worcester where they purchased the Worcester Grange store, turning it into a successful grocery store, "Ference's Grocery." Betty worked together with Joe to run the business, and raised her 3 sons. She enjoyed spending time off with special friends at Titus Lake and was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, taking an active interest in the welfare of veterans. Following the sale of the store in Worcester and a short retirement, Betty and Joe purchased a general store in Harpersfield, NY, which they ran until 1986, whereupon they moved back to Worcester.

Betty was the loving mother of Reed (Jody) Ference of Slingerlands, and was predeceased by her sons Barry and Joseph Bruce Ference. She was the sister of the late Helen Hartenfels of Long Island, the late Dick Newhouse of Long Island, and the late Richard Newhouse of Gilbertsville.
Betty was the cherished grandmother to her 3 grandsons, Sean, Ryan, and Daniel. For the past 26 years, she found great joy in spending as much time as they could together. Intent on including their grandmother in any activity she was willing to try, they shared many hours of backyard barbecues, boating, and beaches together.
Betty was strong and independent, feisty and fun loving. She enjoyed riding in her son's convertible with the top down and swam in the ocean at 90. A woman of enduring traditions, she relished a daily word puzzle, a cocktail and an evening chat with her sons, leg of lamb for Christmas dinner, and a good game of penny poker. Betty deeply loved her family and friends, and was deeply loved by them. With grace and gusto, she lived a long life.

A memorial service is planned for 10 am on Friday, June 10, 2016 at Heller & Skinner Funeral Home, 155 Main St., Worcester, NY 12197. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Catskill Area Hospice, The Community Hospice, or the American Legion.