Our mom, Betty, died peacefully with medical assistance on July 12, 2024, at home in Victoria, BC, surrounded by family. Born to Arthur and Stella Butcher on November 3, 1937, in Sackville, NB, Betty is predeceased by her husband, Peter (2017) and survived by her daughter Kathy (Rae) of Victoria, and son Dave and grandson Max, both of Courtenay, BC. She cared for her family with much love and a patient, generous spirit, and she will be missed deeply. Betty is also survived by her older sister Evelyn Wilkinson of Mississauga, ON and extended family across the country.
Betty married Peter in 1961, and together, they moved around Canada and the world until they retired to Victoria in 1992. Some highlights from Betty’s life overseas include her volunteer work at the Nairobi National Museum in Kenya; her hosting of superb dinner parties in Lagos, Nigeria; and her numerous visits to historical sites in Egypt. Betty and Peter embraced their time in Africa and were forever shaped by the experience. During her retirement, Betty was most recently president of Chapter AR, P.E.O., a global sisterhood of women with the mission of helping women around the world advance through education. She also volunteered with Vancouver Island Lodge (Canadian Cancer Society) and UNICEF. Betty was skilled in many crafts such as paper arts, knitting, quilting, sewing and ikebana. As well, she was a great cook, devoted yoga practitioner and avid reader. She has left so many lasting impressions, and we will carry her memory always.
At Betty’s request, a private cremation and interment has been arranged.
Donations may be made to BC Cancer Agency, 2410 Lee Avenue, Victoria, BC, V8R6V5, or to P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Jeannette Klein
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Karen Stephens I just heard of Betty’s passing. She was a “neighbour” in our Tuesday morning Yoga class and I’ve missed seeing and chatting with her. She had a lovely, kind, presence. So sorry for your loss.
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Linda Grant I met Betty at yoga. She carried herself with such grace.She will truly be missed.
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Kelly Urquhart I met Betty through yoga and was inspired by her incredible discipline and grace. She was a kind, generous woman who led with a caring and aware heart. I’m so sorry she’s gone. I count her as one of my teachers. My deepest condolences to her family.
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MARGARET & BRUCE BUTCHER We feel so fortunate to have met Betty through a family search in ancestry. She has been a great friend for the past 12 years. We enjoyed many visits with her each time we were in Victoria. She had a lovely, soothing nature and always enjoyed a good laugh. We will miss seeing her lovely face and smile but will keep her memory in our minds and hearts. Rest in peace dear soul. Much love from Bruce & Maggie Butcher.
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Patricia Jensen I was both shocked and saddened to read about Betty passing away in today’s Times Colonist. Saw her weekly at yoga classes as she was often on my right until we switched class times and sometimes we would chat about life’s happenings. I am sorry for your loss and we will miss her at yoga.
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Arthur Wilkinson / Brenda Deline Aunt Betty was a beautiful person and will be deeply missed.
Oh heavens! I just heard about Betty’s death. I’m so sorry to hear that. I was planning on a visit soon but never got to it. I hope she didn’t suffer.
I’ve always admired Betty’s focus on exercise and a healthy diet. She walked so much. Rest in peace Betty.