Elizabeth Thompson Curles
Elizabeth “Beth” Thompson Curles, 74, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2025, surrounded by her family. Beth was the oldest daughter of the late Billy O. Thompson and Betty P. Ballard. Above all else, she was a devoted wife, a loving mother, a proud grandmother, and a treasured friend to so many.
One of Beth’s greatest joys in life was being a mother to her daughter, Betsy, and later, a doting grandmother to her three grandsons. Her love for her family was boundless, and she poured her heart into each of them, leaving a legacy of kindness, faith and thoughtfulness.
A lifelong educator, Beth spent 28 years shaping young minds in the classroom, beginning her teaching career at Our Lady Queen of Mercy Catholic School before continuing to Deerfield-Windsor in Albany, GA and later at J.S. Pate Elementary in the Crisp County School System. She finished her teaching career at Crisp Academy as the librarian. Teaching was more than just a profession for Beth; it was a calling. She loved her students deeply, nurturing them as if they were her own children, and instilling in them a love of reading and learning that lasted a lifetime. Beth earned and received a Double Masters Degree in Elementary Education and Reading. While earning her degrees in college, Beth was selected to “Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities.” She was also a proud member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Teacher Honor Society, a testament to her dedication to education. Beth had a heart for service and was active in many organizations, including the United Methodist Women’s Club, where she served as President for three years, supporting the Methodist Children’s Home.
She was also a member of the Thalian Club and a beloved community book club. Though not an official club, one of her favorite gatherings consisted of getting together with her lifelong bridge partners, where friendships flourished over countless games, coffee, and snacks. Beth embraced life fully, describing herself as a “social butterfly” with a wide and cherished circle of friends. She also found joy in music, especially playing the piano, and had a special talent for making others feel loved through the handwritten cards that she sent for birthdays, encouragement, and gratitude. To Beth, this was more than a simple gesture-it was a ministry, a way to lift others up and share God’s love. Beth also had a passion for travel, creating beautiful memories with her husband, Tom. Together, they explored Italy, Australia, New Zealand, and Niagara Falls. One of her most treasured places was St. Simons Island, where she, Betsy and Tom enjoyed making cherished memories with extended family sharing meals, beach time and lots of laughter.
Beth was preceded in death by her sister, Melanie Johnson of Mount Juliet, TN. She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Tom Curles; her daughter, Betsy Johnson, and her husband, Matt Johnson, of Birmingham, AL; her three grandchildren, Thomas, Luke, and Sheppard Johnson; and her three sisters, Becky Lee (Tommy) of Dallas, GA, Ruth Suddreth (Bob) of Concord, NC, and Edie Smith of Byron, GA. She was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed
A funeral service honoring Beth’s life will be held at Cordele First Church in Cordele on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. The family will receive visitors at the church beginning at 12:30 p.m. Beth will be laid to rest at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, March 30, 2025, in Westview Cemetery, 4 Westview Street, Monticello, GA. 31064.
Beth’s family would like you to know that she loved flowers and she had two favorite charities, St. Jude Children’s Hospital and the Methodist Children’s Home, if you would like to make a donation to any of the above, Beth’s family would be appreciative. Beth’s life was one of love, faith, and generosity. She touched the hearts of so many, and her beautiful spirit will live on in the family, friends, and students who were blessed to know her.
Arrangements are by Rainey Family Funeral Services in Cordele, GA. An online guest register is available at www.raineyfuneral.com