Betty Elizabeth Thornburg

Margaret Elizabeth Thornburg, always known as “Betty”, was born to Rudy (O.R.) Thornburg and Margaret Elizabeth Strong on August 18, 1938.

In the early 1940’s, she developed polio. Her grandfather, Dr. Strong of Charlotte, had knowledge of the virus. It was caught early and she was a part of the early treatments. This was before the vaccine was discovered.

Later in life she joined the Navy and became Photographer’s Mate Ground Airman (PHGAN). She was the first enlisted WAVE in 1957 at the Navals Air Development Centers in Johnsville, PA and she was honorably discharged in 1959.

During her service years she married R.B. Dawson. They had their first child, Jeri Lynn Dawson. In 1961, her son, Andy, was born. During those years she found a love for genealogy and family research. She moved to Bessemer City to take care of her father, Rudy (O.R.) Thornburg. She became involved with the Ormand Reunion in Kings Mountain, North Carolina.

Andy William Dawson, her son, who died on June 19, 2022, will be laid to rest beside of her.

Betty’s graveside service will be at 12:00 pm on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Bessemer City Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Old Furnace Foundation, c/o Ray Hughes, 716 Bethlehem Church Rd., Kings Mountain, NC 28086.

Sisk-Butler Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to be serving the Thornburg family. To offer condolences, please visit www.siskbutler.com.