Obituary of Betty Lordly

Lordly, Eva Elizabeth “Betty” (Gustavsen)

As the sun shined bright and the birds sang cheerfully, our dear mother passed on to the next world February 11, 2024, in the comfort of her own home with loved ones at her side. Born April 5, 1935 in Saint John, New Brunswick, she was 9th child of Carl and Nikoline (Brandt) Gustavsen, who immigrated to Canada from Denmark in 1923. 

“Gussie”, as she was known to close friends, grew up in Red Head, just outside of Saint John. Despite life in the Great Depression and losing her brother Preben to the war, Betty lived in an idyllic setting of family and farm life, summer camp and weeks-long canoe trips, swimming at the beach, horse riding and high school basketball. With her natural good looks, she even graced the covers of the local farmer’s digests.

Betty was Valedictorian of her graduating class at Saint John General Hospital School of Nursing (’56). After-which, she sailed to the UK to marry Donald, a pal from her canoe trip days. They became an item when Betty needed a last minute date for a high school dance and he just happened to be available - lucky him! After a few years in the UK, the two returned to Canada and settled in Halifax where they raised four boys in Westmount subdivision.

Between sons, Betty practiced as a nurse while in the UK, at the Victoria General in Halifax and in an in-store clinic at Sears. By far, her favourite job was driving around the province making house calls as a VON. She and Don were devout parishioners at St. Paul’s Anglican Church. She was also an active member of the Professional Engineers Wives Association.

Betty maintained lifelong friendships with her chums back in Saint John as well as in Halifax, through church, the neighbourhood and bridge club. She was an avid gardener, enjoyed swimming and playing tennis at the Waegwoltic Club. Always with a good book on the go and a new recipe to try out, she also loved knitting and quilting for family, among many other crafts.

In retirement, Betty & Don cherished their time in Mackerel Cove; gardening, canoeing and sailing, swimming and barbecuing with family and friends. They also loved to travel near and far, visit family around the globe and go on bicycle tour adventures. In winter, they enjoyed bowling and cross country skiing.

All in all, the "Redhead from Red Head" was a kind soul and lived a truly charmed life. Even in her later years living with dementia, she maintained grace and her familiar gentle and cheerful demeanour. We will miss her dearly and hold her in our hearts always.

Betty is predeceased by husband and lifelong sweetheart Donald, and is survived by sons Michael (Takako), Andru (Judith), Preben and Matthew, and grandsons Kai (Danielle) and Tuskar. The Lordly family would like to extend deep gratitude to Josephine and Bernadette for treating our Mom like their own, Hazel at Continuing Care, Jody at Geriatrics Outreach, the Lawtons pharmacy team at Halifax Shopping Centre, the palliative team and VON.

Cremation and arrangements have been entrusted to J Albert Walker Funeral Home (2005) Ltd. By request, there will be no visitation or memorial service. A celebration of Betty’s life will be held at a later date. Donations may be made to a charity of your choice.