On the morning of January 17, 2023, Betty Phelan of Edmonton peacefully passed away at home with her cherished dog, Boo, by her side. She was 89 years old.
She is survived by her sons, Donald (Lanie) and Michael; daughters, Carol and Susan (Louis); grandchildren, Ryan, Sean, Danny (Megan), Erin (Tyler), Alanna (Chris), Brendan, Michelle, Shannon, Katie (Jason), Jennifer (Esteban); and great grandchildren Alejandro and Kaliyah, as well as many loving friends and numerous nieces and nephews.
Betty was predeceased by her husband of 60 years, Tom; and her parents, Sarah and John Nelson.
Betty Loraine Strahan was born in West Hazel, Saskatchewan. When she was a child, her family moved to Alberta, where years later she met the charming Tom Phelan. They fell in love and were married in 1953 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Edmonton. In addition to raising four children, Tom and Betty developed a wide, diverse circle of friends who shared their love of family and friendship. Their door was always open to everyone, and they became the beloved hosts of many memorable gatherings.
Betty’s lifelong passion for music led her to become an accomplished pianist who studied with many prominent musicians throughout her life. A lifetime member of ARMTA (Alberta Music Teachers’ Association of Music), Betty taught piano to countless students for over 60 years until she retired at the age of 82. She also played the organ at St. Matthew’s Catholic Parish and was a member of the Catholic Women’s League for 40 years.
A special thank you to the Alberta Health Services’ Self-Managed Care Program, and Home Care; the Good Samaritan Seniors’ Clinic; the Community EMS; and all the caregivers who have taken such excellent care of Mom through the years.
Prayers will be held on Thursday, January 26, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, 13131-86 St, Edmonton. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church on Friday, January 27, 2023 at 11:00 am, with interment to follow at St. Michael’s Cemetery, 13819-82 St, Edmonton.
A reception and celebration of life will follow directly afterwards at St. Matthew’s Parish Hall, 13131 – 86 Street.
Everyone is welcome to attend any or all of the above.
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