Betty Thomson passed away peacefully after a brief illness at the age of 96 surrounded by her loving family. Betty was born in Edmonton, Alberta to Major Jack and Laura Towerton. She completed a Bachelor of Commerce degree in 1942 from the University of Alberta. While training as an accountant, Betty met Haughton Thomson and they married on June 26th 1943 in Edmonton. Betty and Haughton raised five children. She was predeceased by her parents, her sister Margaret and husband Haughton. Betty is survived by her children: Laura Hunt (Ron), Eric (Susan Desjardins), Ellen (Al Reynolds), Drew (Valeska) and Rob (Jenny). She will be fondly remembered by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Krista (Michael), Kyle (Jill, Lily and Jackson), Ian (Izabela), Glenn, Heather, Rachel and Evan.
Betty’s family has learned so much from a woman who was smarter than the rest of us, hilarious (even though she wasn’t trying), and a model, lifelong community volunteer. Women’s education was a passionate cause and Betty was a long-serving member and past-Provincial President of PEO Alberta (Go Golden Girls!). Betty and her PEO sisters provided many loans to make higher education more accessible for women.
Recently, she was profiled in the University of Alberta’s The Face of a Century project for her volunteer work with the Edmonton Art Gallery and the Allen Gray Continuing Care Centre (where a wing was named after her). She will be greatly missed and never forgotten by her PEO sisters, her bridge group, and her dear friend Jo and nephew Barry who provided so much care and companionship as she determinedly remained in her own home until a few months ago. Most of all, her family is unbelievably grateful to have had so many years and memories with Betty/Mom/Nana/Munner.
The family thanks the superb medical staff at the University of Alberta Hospital for their compassionate care of Betty. A celebration of her life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 24, 2017 at the Royal Mayfair Golf and Country Club. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Gray House Guild, c/o Allen Gray Continuing Care Centre, 5005 – 28 Avenue, Edmonton, AB T6L 7G9
David Janzen says
Mrs. Thomson: A few (very few) aspects of life are stable and consistent.You were a solid fixture in my life….since I befriended your son, Robert, in 1966. He’s been a steady pal ever since and you were always there, too. Your home in Windsor Park didn’t really change much over the years and it was a blessing that you were able to live there, independently for as long as you did. Your generosity, good sense – and your discerning taste in art – are qualities that are reflected in your offspring. Your presence will be so missed.
David Janzen
Barbara Hutchison says
My sincere condolences to all of you – I haven’t seen you for quite a few years now but your mother always kept me up to date.
We had such a lovely visit and lunch when I was back in Edmonton early May – I couldn’t believe it when Ada phoned me to say the Betty was in hospital. I phoned the hospital & asked them to give Betty my message – to cheer her up.
I won’t be coming for her service but wanted to let you know that I was thinking of you – she was such an amazing woman.
Doris Moonie says
We enjoyed many years with the Thomson family as neighbors. Your mother was an inspiration
for all of us. Sincere sympathy from Doris and Janet.