LOUISBURG-Elizabeth “Betty” (LaBarge) Bates, 73, died at home on Thursday Nov. 20, 2008. Memorial services were conducted at Leah’s Chapel United Methodist, Louisburg, on Monday, Nov. 24, at 1:30 p.m.

She was born in Tupper Lake, N.Y., the daughter of Julia and Francis LaBarge. She worked for many years for North Country Girl Scout Council and at LakeClear camp where she was known as “Mrs. Friendly.”

Surviving: her children, Brent A. Bates of Plattsburgh, N.Y., Beth B. Ashline of Louisburg, the Rev. Bonnie Bates (Steve Vulcheff) of Madrid, N.Y.; sister, Jeanne Clough of Houston, Tex.; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Bates; son, Brad A. Bates; and three grandsons.

Memorial donations may be made to Leah’s Chapel United Methodist Church, 50 Promise Land Road, Louisburg, NC 27549 or Fundships, Girl Scouts of North Eastern New York, 323 Tom Miller Road, Plattsburgh, NY 12901.

Arrangements by Bright Funeral Home & Cremation Center; www.brightfunerals.com