Elizabeth “Betty” Mary Bridge (Venus) entered into rest on January 20, 2017. Born on October 6, 1923 in Buffalo to the late William Joseph and Alberta Caroline (Suess) Venus.

Resided in Buffalo until age 8, then moved to the city of Tonawanda where she continued her education until graduation in the class of 1941 at Tonawanda high school, where she earned the nickname of “Weener” to her close friends. Elizabeth went on to further her education at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. In 1945 she accepted a position teaching physical education at the Royalton-Hartland school district and resided in Middleport, NY. She began teaching K-12, and was later able to start teaching her favorite grades K-6 at both Gasport Elementary and Middleport Elementary for 40 years.  During her time teaching she married John Joseph “Jack” Bridge on October 9, 1948. She is survived by her two sons, Thomas and Patrick Bridge, and grandson Cody M. Bridge.  Betty conducted the school census for several years, which provided a great source of information on the families in her school district and this made her one of the most well-known people and teachers in the area.  In 1985, Betty, known by her students as Mrs. Bridge, retired. Over the years, she had taught many families, some for three generations. During this time, she enjoyed teaching swimming and being the cheerleading advisor. During retirement, she continued serving her community by working and advising at the Middleport Food Pantry for 29 years.

The family of Betty would like to thank the staff at Heritage Manor (Lockport) and Absolute Care of Gasport for the excellent care they provided and compassion they showed her and her family.
No prior visitation. A mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday at 11:00AM at St. Stephen’s Church (Holy Trinity Parish 19 Vernon Street, Middleport, NY 14105, friends invited. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Middleport Food Pantry 15 Vernon Street
Middleport, New York 14105 or a charity of your choice.

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