Bertha Brouwer Thompson, a cherished matriarch, passed away peacefully at her home in Belford Jan. 15, 2026.
Born Aug. 4, 1926, in Rochester, New York, Bertha was the youngest of six children welcomed by Frank and Bertha Brouwer, who journeyed to America from Holland in 1909. Her early years were marked by a vibrant family life and a strong sense of community.
A bright and ambitious young woman, Bertha graduated early from Leonardo High School in 1943 at age 16. Two weeks later, she was working as a stenographer in New York City for the esteemed Ashenfelter and Morrow Brokers. Her work ethic and dedication were evident from the start, as she navigated the bustling city with grace and determination.
She married her husband, David G. Thompson, in 1947 and they had three children: Karen Guerrieri, Walter “Zippy” Thompson, and David “Bubby” Thompson. After her time in New York City, Bertha returned to her passion for education, serving as a substitute teacher for the Middletown and Union Beach school districts for a decade.
She was predeceased by her husband, daughter Karen and son Walter. Her love and legacy continue through her son, David and his wife Phyllis; her daughter-in-law, Karen Thompson; and her six adored grandchildren: Sue (Vinnie) Gautieri, Nicole (Joseph) Castelli, David (Dana) Thompson, Allison Thompson (Kevin), Greg Thompson, and Lisa (Matt) Preston. Bertha also has nine great-grandchildren: Lauren (Alex) Velez, Eric (Liz) Gautieri, Alyssa Gautieri, Giana (John) Castelli, Anthony (Alex) Castelli, Max Castelli, Shane Grogan, Alivia Grogan, Adeline Preston, and 7 great-great grandchildren: Christian Apel, Jordan Velez, Maya Velez, Cortland Gautieri, Reese Gautieri, Charlotte Gautieri, and Jack Garrigan, who will carry her spirit forward.
Bertha’s interests were as varied as they were heartfelt. She loved the beach, where she spent countless hours basking in the sun with friends and family. Her balloon-tire bicycle was a familiar sight around town until she reluctantly gave up riding in October 2013 at the age of 86. Bertha’s hands were rarely still, as she found joy in crocheting, making braided wool rugs, and playing the piano. Her Tuesdays were reserved for the Middletown Senior Center, where she engaged with her peers. An animal lover at heart, Bertha’s compassion extended to all creatures, great and small.
Friends and family paid their respects Jan. 23 at Scott & Kedz Home for Funerals in Belford. A funeral service was celebrated Jan. 24 at Belford United Methodist Church. The burial followed at Bayview Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, Bertha asked that donations be made in her name to the Monmouth County SPCA at monmouthcountyspca.org.
The article originally appeared in the February 5 – 11, 2026 print edition of The Two River Times.
