A lifelong resident of Wyoming, Betty Budd Fear has served the communities of Big Piney and Marbleton and is extremely proud of the education she received from the Big Piney School District.
Upon graduating from the University of Wyoming with a degree in education, Betty assumed the position of social studies and language arts teacher at the Big Piney Middle School. Her contact with students went far beyond her work in the classroom. She was the piano accompanist for many music soloists and group programs. She also served as assistant director for many Big Piney High School musical productions enabling students to experience first-rate theater experiences.
Betty has been extremely active in the political arena of Sublette County as well as the State of Wyoming. She served eight years as a member of the Sublette County 9 School Board. Governor Mike Sullivan appointed Betty to the Wyoming State Board of Education where she served. Later, that was followed by an appointment from Governor Dave Freudenthal to serve on the Board of Trustees for the University of Wyoming. Betty was elected by the citizens of Sublette County to serve two terms as county commissioner.
Community involvement has also played an important role in the life of Betty Budd Fear. She co-owned and operated the Marbleton Inn and Restaurant. She also was a real estate broker throughout the area. Betty served as secretary for the Wyoming Rodeo Association and also sponsored the Big Piney High School Rodeo team. During the school year, you could find Betty driving many miles transporting the ski team to practices and meets as well as driving to her children’s many other school activities. As a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church, her piano skills are utilized as she plays at numerous church functions, including weddings, funerals and programs. Lastly, Betty has donated time and money to various community causes including the Green River Valley Museum, A Woman’s Work, 4-H and the Big Piney Library.
Betty attributes her accomplishments to the caliber of teachers that taught in Big Piney during her years. She especially acknowledges her music instructor, John Gallemore, who provided her with the background in music and the arts she enjoys so much.