Obituary of Elizabeth Bridget Smith

Elizabeth (Bette) Bridget Smith of the R.K. MacDonald Guest Home age 91, died peacefully on April 15, 2022 in Saint Martha’s Hospital Palliative Care Unit with family at her side. Bette, one of three girls, was born in Harbour Breton, NL on November 19,1930; she was very proud of her Newfoundland heritage.

At the early age of 5 she lost her father and two uncles when the fishing schooner “Alsatian'' sank off the Grand Banks. Following that tragedy, her mother moved her and her sisters to Antigonish.

She is survived by her husband, Glennie, the “Love of her Life” for 66 years; daughter Sharon (Paul), Malignant Cove; sons, Glen (Lita), Lawrencetown Hlfx Co; Shaun (Cheryl), Antigonish; Darren (Charmaine), NL; Kevin, Calgary; Jeff (Crystal) Antigonish; 11 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren. Remembered fondly by her nieces Glenda Martin Gerrow, Ethel Martin and Rita Martin of Cape Breton, and her nephews, Tommy Martin of New Glasgow and Dennis Fear of Calgary. Predeceased by her parents Arthur James Martin and Mary Agnes Martin; her sisters Rita Martin and Mary Fear; brother Tom Martin; nephews Johnny Martin and Gerard Martin; step brothers, Bobby MacNeil and Francis MacNeil and sister in law Theresa Martin. In laws, Alex and Catherine Smith; brother in law, Father Buddy Smith; sister in law, Barb Smith.

Bette was always stylish and elegant, and took great care with her appearance. Even in her final weeks she was making plans for hair and nail appointments, and would never face the day without a coordinated outfit and full makeup. She and Glennie graciously welcomed many into their home over the years. Whether for a short visit or extended stay, every person who entered their home would have fond memories of their hospitality. Their home was a gathering place for friends and family, and their grandchildren and great grandchildren will have special memories of their visits with Grammy and Grampy. She stayed closely connected to her family with regular Facetime chats. Many were impressed by how she embraced technology late in life and her eagerness to learn something new. Bette was a hard worker, raising six children while working outside the home. She worked for Drs. Greening and Saxon, then moved on to work for Drs. Smith and Mackenna. Later in life she worked at Antigonish Optical where she enjoyed meeting people and helping clients with their needs.

Visitation will take place at MacIsaac Funeral Home, 61 Pleasant Street, Antigonish, from 2:00 - 4:00 pm and 7:00 - 9:00 pm on Monday April 18, 2022. Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, April 19, at St Ninian’s Cathedral with Rev. Dan MacLennan presiding. Burial in the parish cemetery will take place at a later date. Attendees are requested to wear face masks and be fully vaccinated. Family flowers only. Donations in Bette’s memory can be made to the IWK Foundation at www.iwkfoundation.org. www.MacIsaacs.ca