Leslie Jean Byers

She was born June 27, 1955, to Stanley and Margaret Lawrence in Creston, B.C.

She lived with her family on various ranches in southern B.C., including Creston, Fernie, Oliver, Naramata, Christina Lake and Chilliwack. Leslie enjoyed life to its fullest and gave of herself to others, starting at a very young age. Her fondest memories were growing up in Naramata on the family guest ranch. Here she would be joined by her younger nieces and nephews for the summers. To this day, they talk of the adventures led and initiated by Leslie. Tales of searching for Ogopogo, swimming into dark, narrow caverns in search of the elusive beast. Summer school in an old converted picker’s cabin, taught by headmistress Leslie complete with a “School” sign painted by the kids of summer school. School outings would include studying Indigenous pictographs found on the rock cliffs on the ranch and imagining what life was like when they were created. This was often followed by trail rides on horseback through “Wild Horse Canyon”, imaginations running wild as the horses would occasionally sense rattlesnakes nearby. This would often cause the horses to bolt, hair raised, nostrils flared, hoofs pounding. On hot days, the ride might include taking the horses to the lake for a swim. Evenings with the young “students” might include a hike up to the old gravesite where Leslie would quietly tell ghost stories to the wide-eyed youngsters; on one occasion, the story was about the 5 o’clock sprinkler spirit. After these spooky tales, Leslie would gather her charges and calm them with tales of her three favorite characters, Pot Belly, Wrinkle Bum and Bite 'em.

These are but a few of the stories held dear in the hearts of all the participants.

Leslie graduated high school in Grand Forks and subsequently attended Western Pentecostal Bible College followed by Fraser Valley College, completing the Criminal Justice Program. Later she received certification as an Ophthalmic Assistant through the Centennial College of Applied Arts and Technology. In 1989 Leslie completed a Medical Terminology course at Fraser Valley College. Later while working at Chilliwack General Hospital, she completed training for both Central Processing Aid and Sterile Processing Technician.

She and Jack Byers married in 1983. Jack had two sons, Christopher and Gordon.

Leslie had a varied employment history. This including working at Dr. Balisky’s eye clinic as a certified ophthalmic technician, managing an apartment complex and at the Maple Ridge Correctional Center for Women as a recreational coordinator. She then gained employment at Chilliwack General Hospital as a Sterile Processing Technician, retiring after 18 years in the summer of 2010.

Leslie was also active in the church community for many years, volunteering whenever she saw or felt the need. She was a deeply spiritual woman and trusted the plan that her Lord held for her. This deep belief was reflected in the courage and strength she displayed through her illness. It enabled her to be strong through this trying time and maintain her kindness and humble demeanor. She was quick to smile and had an innate ability to see the good in others.

Her and Jack travelled many times. Her favorite destinations include San Francisco, New Orleans, Hawaii and Guatemala.

Leslie demonstrated Loyal love to those who were fortunate to know her and she was loved and respected by all. She saw the good in others and forgave freely. She loved her family and had an affinity for the children. She was compassionate and gentle in nature.

During the last month of Leslie’s rapid decline in health, her faith never waivered. Not a tear was shed. She said “I’m not afraid; I know where I am going. I will just wait for the lesson.”

When asked what that lesson was, she said… “We need to be kinder to one another. We need to mend the fences”.

Through her words with family and the staff that took care of her in her last days, she was the perfect example of God’s love. She was gentle, kind and was always putting them first. All with a heightened sense of humour.

Leslie is survived by her sisters Carol Lawrence, Linda Smith, and Marlene Harris. Stepsons Christopher and Gordon, 5 step grandchildren and 3 step great grandchildren.

Leslie is predeceased by her husband John Everett (Jack) and brother Donavon Lawrence.

We love you Leslie and will miss you dearly.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the Tea Room at Henderson’s Funeral Home, 45901 Victoria Ave, Chilliwack, B.C., August 8th, 2025 at 2pm.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested that donations be made in Leslie’s name to the Cyrus Center, 45845 Wellington Ave, Chilliwack, B.C., V2P 2E1.