Obituary of Elizabeth Betsey Varney

Elizabeth “Betsey” Guthrie Varney, formerly of Marion, died peacefully at her home in Brunswick, Maine on January 20 after a long battle with PSP. She was born March 1, 1939 in Oneonta, New York, the daughter of the Reverend James and Elizabeth Guthrie. Rev. Guthrie was a long-time pastor at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Marion, Indiana. A graduate of Marion High School class of 1956, she received her degree in chemistry from Westminster College in New Wilmington, Pennsylvania. She had a long career in her field in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey before retiring to Maine in 2000. She was a life-long choir member and also enjoyed quilting and square-dancing. A sister, Marcie Guthrie Cain, and her parents pre-deceased her. She is survived by her husband David L. Varney, and a sister, Linda McClelland of Jacksonville, Florida. A memorial service will be held at First Parish Church in Brunswick at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 30th. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Oasis Free Clinic, 66 Baribeau Drive, Brunswick, Maine, 04011. On-line condolences may be placed at www.directcremationofmaine.com.