Bette Panton remembered for caring teaching, engagement with community organisations

Many in the community were saddened to learn of the death of a much loved former resident Bette Panton, 80, last Tuesday morning.

Mrs Panton, who passed away in Melbourne where she was a patient in an aged care facility, was held in great respect and affection.

The late Mrs Panton arrived on the train in Narrabri as Elizabeth Margaret Paton in the 1960s to begin her teaching career and generations of students at Narrabri Public School, and later, Narrabri TAFE, were beneficiaries of her patient, caring and conscientious teaching.

Miss Paton met her husband Ross Panton in Narrabri and the couple enjoyed a fulfilling family and community life. Mrs Panton was not only a valued and accomplished teacher, engaged in community organisations, but also an unwavering supporter of her late husband, former mayor, Ross, in his busy local government career which spanned many years.

Mrs Panton is survived by her sons Neil and Ian.

Neil said their mother had passed away peacefully, in her sleep, with Ian at her side.

Service arrangements for the late Mrs Panton are to be announced.