Elizabeth “Betty” M. Spruill, of Lynchburg, Virginia, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2026, at the age of 85.

Born on February 12, 1941, Betty lived a life grounded in faith, music, and a deep devotion to her family. With a gentle, steady nature, she was a faithful presence in the lives of her family and friends, offering quiet support, consistency, and love through the years.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill Spruill; her sister, Barbara Canody; her parents, Ruth and Boyd Martindale; and her niece, Michelle Canody.

She is survived by her devoted son, Adam Spruill (Liza), who, along with his wife, ensured she was always cared for with love and attention. She deeply loved her grandsons, Andrew and Ashton Spruill, and was a steady, caring presence in their lives as they grew. She found great joy in time spent with them, and she was grateful to live long enough to see the men they’ve become.

She also shared a special bond with her nephew, Boyd Canody (Carla), and remained close to her extended family, including her brother, Bob Martindale (Sunny) and his children, David, Sam (Mary), Katie (Sean), Tracy (Tony), Sharifah (Peyton), Rosemary (Brandon), Dane (Katie), Debbye, Ella (John), Michael (Jenn), Melissa (Chris) and Karen, along with many nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Jim (Laurel), and their sons, Will, Josh, and David.

Betty cherished her family connections in Louisiana, often traveling twice a year to visit her brother and extended family. She especially enjoyed spending time with the many children in the family and the memories made during those visits.

She valued her friendships, many of which spanned more than 40 years, and always looked forward to time spent together.

Betty was appreciative of the kindness shown to her by caregivers, neighbors, friends, and family throughout the years.

Betty earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music and a Master of Education from Lynchburg College (now the University of Lynchburg), and also attended the University of Virginia and Lindenwood Women’s College in Missouri.

She taught music in Campbell County Schools for over 20 years, inspiring students through her creativity and love of music. Known for her themed and seasonal outfits, she brought personality into the classroom and found her own way of shining through music. Earlier in her life, she also sang at Lynchburg College and with the Jefferson Choral Society, and volunteered at Lynchburg General Hospital.

Her faith was central to her life. Betty and her husband, Bill, were longtime members of Grace Memorial Episcopal Church, where she served as organist and choirmaster for many years and later continued to share her musical talents as an organist, choir member, choir director, and handbell leader. She especially cherished her time with the choir at Grace and the friendships she formed there. She also contributed to music programs at First United Methodist Church, First Presbyterian Church, Heritage United Methodist Church, and St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, and was a member of the Daughters of the King and Alpha Delta Kappa, reflecting her lifelong commitment to faith and service.

Betty will be remembered for the quiet, steady way she showed up in the lives of those she loved, for the friendships she cherished, and for the faith and music that were woven throughout her life.

“All of us go down to the dust; yet even at the grave we make our song: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.”

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2026 at 11:30 am at Grace Memorial Episcopal Church, 1021 New Hampshire Avenue, Lynchburg VA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Grace Memorial Episcopal Church in Lynchburg, VA by clicking here

Her family is grateful for the time they shared with her and finds comfort knowing she is at peace and forever held in God’s care.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.