Betty J. Holcomb

Betty Holcomb, 79, a longtime resident of Harford Mills, passed away on December 9, 2023, at her home surrounded by family. Born on April 1, 1944, Betty was the daughter of the late Franklin and Carolyn (Nelson) Baker.

Betty is survived by her loving children: Juanita “Abby” (Ronald) Birdsall, Annette Thayer, Lucinda “Cindy” (David) Hunt, and Jack Holcomb Jr, her brothers: Ronald (Julie) Baker, Frank Karpensky, Brownie Karpensky, and Richard Karpensky, her sisters: Janet Reese, Anna Welsch, Shirley Moorehouse, Cherie Sincesbaugh, and Pamela Fuller, 13 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, many nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Jack Holcomb Sr., and her brothers: Frank, Roy, Larry, and Andy Baker.

Betty was a loving mother and grandmother; her family meant the world to her. Betty’s grandchildren brought her joy. Betty led a life of love and warmth, always greeting friends with a smile. Betty spent many years as an assembler at Smith Corona in Cortland, NY. She enjoyed sewing, golfing, and cooking. Betty loved playing games with her children and grandchildren like cards, Phase 10, Yahtzee, Skip-Bo, and Hand-in-Foot. She enjoyed dirt track racing especially when her son Jack was racing, later she watched her grandson field race cars on Facebook. Perhaps most notable was Betty's musical talent. A self-taught bass guitarist, she brought rhythm and soul to "Country Squares," her beloved band. Her music resonated with the authenticity of country life and the spirit of the close-knit community she cherished.

A memorial service to celebrate Betty’s life will take place in April. Friends and Family are invited to share memories and condolences in her guestbook at macphersonfh.com The family is being assisted by the MacPherson Funeral Home, Newark Valley, NY.