Mary Elizabeth “Betty” (Ballantyne) Doyle
WOODBURN – Mary Elizabeth “Betty” (MacLeod Ballantyne) Doyle. Surrounded by the love of her family, Mum passed peacefully in her Woodburn home on Monday, November 13, 2017.
Mum was born in Stellarton on November 24, 1932. At the age of 19, she married John Ballantyne and moved to the family farm in Woodburn. She embraced life on a working farm and soon started to raise a family – Margaret, Bob (Shelley), Susan (Dave), Joyce (John), and Agnes. After Dad died, Mum was blessed to meet Pat Doyle who brought great joy to all our lives. In 1991 they married, and her family grew with his – Pat (Dorothy), John (Bonnie) and Mike (Pam).
Mum taught us by example – the way to love, the importance of having fun, how to be strong and the need to work hard, and how to make good pie. She believed in the importance of family, passing that on to us, and always enjoyed being surrounded by her family.
Along with her children, she will always be loved by brothers: Fred, Coleman, AB; Peter (Eileen), Dartmouth; and sister, Joyce, Meadow Lake, SK; her grandchildren: Andrew, Melissa (Ron), and Matthew (Leona); Ashley (Joe) and Mark; Graham (Brittany) and Hannah; Randy (Jessica) and Daniel (Jessica); Ric (Krista); Robyn (Roland), Lisa (Matthew), Robbie, and Kennedy. William, John Angus, Alexandra and Theo, her great grandchildren, lit up her life. Mum will be fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
In addition to Dad and Pat, Mum was predeceased by her parents, Gregor and Mary MacLeod; siblings: Don, Watson, Bob, Dorothy and Margie; her “favourite” son-in-law, Jamie Milne; Pat’s son Rob, and grandson Adam.
Mum’s work outside the home included a linotype operator at The Evening News, store clerk (Little Harbour) and bookkeeper. Mum was a long-time active member of Little Harbour Presbyterian Church where she served in many roles. She was very active in her community and always willing to lend a hand when needed. She knew that it is in giving that you receive.
Special thanks to Dr. Gregor MacLean, Dr. Katrina Keiser and the Pictou County VON.
Arrangements are under the direction of R.H. Funeral Home, 55 Almont Ave., New Glasgow, with visitation Wednesday, November 15, 2017, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Funeral service at Little Harbour Presbyterian Church, Little Harbour, on Thursday November 16, 2017, at 2 p.m., with Rev. Lorne MacLeod officiating. Reception to follow. Interment in Woodburn Cemetery. Donations in Betty’s memory can be made to Little Harbour Presbyterian Church, Woodburn Cemetery, or a charity of your choice. Condolences may be sent by visiting: www.rhporter.ca