Longtime local teacher dies at 66, asks for backpacks filled with school supplies in lieu of flowers
A well-respected and long-time teacher with Dayton Public Schools died earlier this month after a hard battle against breast cancer.
Elizabeth Waggoner, better known as Bessie, taught for four decades in Dayton and knew everyone.
Before passing, she made a final wish to be sure that even in death she was helping others.
In lieu of flowers, Waggoner asked everyone to bring backpacks filled with school supplies to be donated to Valerie and Northridge Elementary Schools.
“It’s amazing to see how many lives that she’s changed throughout her whole journey,” said Amanda Moore, Waggoner’s niece.
Moore said Waggoner was someone she could always count on.
“She was always at me and my sisters and cousin’s basketball games,” Moore said.
She also always showed up for her students.
“She was very fond of being a teacher. She absolutely loved it,” Moore said.
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They could rely on Waggoner when she was here and even after passing away.
More than 100 book bags have been donated thanks to the beloved teacher’s final request.
“Hopefully that shines a light to the young kids when they grow up. They can also give back and help one another,” Moore said.
Moore says the selfless last act by Waggoner was just who she was and she is proud to have had her as her aunt.
“If I’m half of the woman that she is, I’m going to do better in life,” Moore said.
The school’s principal said the donation, thanks to Waggoner, is a blessing for the kids needing supplies during the year.
