On Sunday, February 19th the bright spirit that is Betty Gilliland slipped away to join the love of her life, Jim.
Betty was born the second youngest of four siblings in a small town in Scotland. Her vivacious spark was obvious in old family photos and she maintained that spunk throughout her life. That pluck saw her through difficult times and ensured that she thoroughly relished the good times.
Betty was elegant – a real head turner and always, always a lady. She had a way of communicating her likes and dislikes through a subtle nuance of expression – discreet but very effective. She had a sense of style and never went out without her make up on, her hair just so, jewellery in place wearing a well matched outfit.
She loved fun and she was darn good at having it! Visiting the pyramids, dining at Deep Cove Chalet, the flowered fields in the south of France, sipping sparkling wine on the back deck at Saturna, providing knowledgeable and animated hockey game commentary and, slightly tipsy after dinner, singing Scottish songs —- she did it all with zest and elan.
After Jim’s death, Betty formed a new life for herself in her light-filled apartment on Dallas Road – she never once took that marvellous view for granted and derived great pleasure from family visits. Ah family. Family was everything to Betty. Her favourite people were her children and grandchildren and up to the very end she expressed pleasure in those relationships.
Despite her last few years of dementia, Mum stayed true to form – a happy, plucky spirit who engaged in lively conversation, much laughter and a wee bit of wine!
We, her children, will miss her dearly. It is almost impossible to imagine life without her. Remembering her with love are her children Liz (Bob), Christine (Bruce), Jamie (Lori), Ailsa (Steve)and her much loved grandchildren, Cameron, Lachlan, Rory, Sarah and Logan.
No funeral will be held. In honour of Betty, please have yourself a glass of sparkling wine and remember, enjoy every sip.
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