Obituary of Elizabeth Standish

STANDISH, Betty ( Elizabeth Mary, nee Staples) 1921-2022

Our fiercely independent mother passed away peacefully on August 17, 2022, just short of her 101st birthday, at New Horizons Tower in Toronto.

Much loved wife of Norman Standish (1979); beloved mother of Margo (Dick), Robert (Betty), Ann (Mike) and David; loving grandmother of Tina (Ray), Ashley (John), and Jasper (Sarah); great grandmother of Matthew, Henry, Violet and Sydney. Fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews.

Betty was born in Woodville, Ontario to Dr. Samuel Staples and Margaret Crawford. She was proud of her nurse’s training at Ross Memorial Hospital in Lindsay and worked part time when her children were young.

A very strong, resilient woman, she handled adversity with a positive outlook. Her husband’s career required frequent moves including an extended stay in India. After his early death she traveled extensively, always open to new experiences.

While living in Chatham, she volunteered with the Heather Club, actively working at the Book Sale to raise funds for the hospital. She also volunteered for Meals on Wheels, often delivering assistance to seniors up to ten years her junior. Betty didn’t let much slow her down, not even her age.

She was an avid curler with the Chatham Granite Club until she was almost 90. Her competitive spirit was also apparent in her love of golf and especially bridge.

We are grateful to Larry and Marg Eagleson, whose friendship and support made it possible for Betty to live independently in Chatham into her nineties. We would also like to thank Chelsea, Sharlene, Kris, Dr. Hsueh, Sally, Faye, and the other staff on The Terrace at New Horizons who looked after Betty with such care and compassion.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

If you wish, please consider a donation to a charity of your choice in Betty’s name

McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham, 519-351-2040