Elizabeth "Betty" Bernadette McPhee

Betty was a beloved wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She was born on April 30, 1950, in West Pennant, Nova Scotia, to her late parents Will and Guida Tough, the 12th of 13 children.

Mom’s life was a testament to love, compassion, and selflessness. She dedicated herself to her family, nurturing her children and building a home with her husband James, whom she married in 1968 — a home filled with warmth, laughter, and unconditional love.

Affectionately called “the Road Runner” by her four children, Mom tirelessly drove us to music lessons, sporting events, and school functions. Her open door and welcoming spirit made our home a haven — the place where neighborhood children gathered for playdates and sleepovers, always finding an extra seat at the table and a warm meal waiting. She had an extraordinary way of making people feel seen, cared for, and at home — whether they were lifelong friends or someone she had just met. To Mom, friends were family. She was one of the first to lend a helping hand when someone was ill or in need, and her generosity reached into the community through her volunteer work. She also loved sewing, reading, and genealogy, spending countless hours tracing our roots and preserving our family history.

As her children grew, Mom found purpose and pride in her work. She held positions at Sears Parts and Service in data entry and later became a business owner alongside two of her daughters. She also worked at the Orthopedic Clinic at Capital Health as a booking clerk and even had a memorable adventure serving as a security officer in Iqaluit with the Airport Authority — always embracing new challenges with strength and grace.

But her greatest joy was her family. She adored every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter. Known affectionately as “Gram,” “Bennie,” and “GiGi,” she left an imprint on each of our hearts.

She will be deeply missed by her children: Suzanne (Daryl), Genine (Stephen), Bill (Jennifer), and Judi (Wade), who will carry her love forward. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Coady (Sarah), Josh, Kayle (Hallie), Zachary, Liam, Madeline, and Tony, great-granddaughter Elsie and chosen great-grandson Harrison. She also held a special place in her heart for her chosen son Chris Schnare, chosen daughter Anna Slaunwhite-Duggan (Glenn), and former granddaughter-in-law Jillian Weaver (Donnie Sabine).

In addition to her immediate family, Mom is mourned by her dear friends Gertie Adams and Patsy Gray, who offered unwavering companionship. She is survived by her siblings: Leo (Peggy), George (Shirley), Jean Glover, David (Karen), Mike (Irene), Paul (Marilyn) and Colleen Findley (Phil); her sister-in-law Sandra Tough; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who adored her.

She is now reunited in heaven with our Dad, James, her beloved husband of 35 years. She was also predeceased by her mother-in-law, Lola McPhee; the father of her late husband, Colin Hart; her grandchildren, Caleb and Hope Horton; her nephew and godson, David Hart; her niece and goddaughter, Christina Tough; and her sister, Theresa, in infancy. She now joins her brothers, William (and his wife, Joan) and Pat; sisters, Mary Darrach (and her husband, Victor) and Anna Bosselle (and her husband, Hector); and in-laws Marion Tough, Debbie Tough, James Glover, Sherman and Goldie Hart, and Ivy and Lewie Henneberry.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held at J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax, on Friday, May 16, 2025, from 2–4 p.m. and 6–8 p.m. The funeral service and interment will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 2 p.m. at St. James United Church, 3811 Old Sambro Road, Sambro, with Rev. Helene Burns officiating. Reception to follow in St. James Church Hall.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Spicer and Janis, who cared for and supported Mom for over 40 years. We are also deeply grateful to Dr. Sado, Dr. Rockwood, Nurse Jody, and Nurse Vicki for their compassionate care. Special thanks to all the private and Paramed caregivers for their kindness and compassion, and to Helene, whose faithful presence and comforting prayers brought peace to Mom in her final weeks.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mom’s memory to St. James United Church in Sambro (www.sambrojollimorepc.com/donations), the Alzheimer Society (www.alzheimer.ca), the Sambro Imagination Library (www.imaginationlibrary.com/ca/affiliate/NSSAMBRO), or a charity of your choice.

Mom’s legacy of love and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. As she begins her final journey, we take comfort in knowing she is at peace and reunited with our Dad, her loving husband, after 20 years apart. May they find eternal rest and comfort together.