Elizabeth Freeman "Betty" (Ellis) Giffin – 84, Truro, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, at Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro, on Saturday, October 4, 2014. Born September 14, 1930, in Milton, Queens County, she was a daughter of the late Robert and Vera (Freeman) Ellis.
She was a loving wife and matriarch and will be forever missed by her family. Betty is survived by her children, Dr. Scott Giffin (Shari), Rothesay, New Brunswick; Gaye MacDonald, Truro; Robert Giffin (Karin Schultz), Whistler, British Columbia; Ann Waswa (Joe), Fort Hope, Ontario; sisters, Shirley Lauzon (Richard), Gatineau, Quebec; Roberta Stoddard (Dick), Lancaster, New Hampshire; grandchildren, Mason MacDonald, Morgan MacDonald, Mallory MacDonald, Brea Giffin, Rane Giffin, Hannah Waswa, Ben Waswa, Parker Waswa, Kylie Waswa; four great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. Along with her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Dr. Carl Giffin; sister, Marion (Ellis) Cole.
Betty was a lively, vibrant person with a peaceful passion for life. She was a graduate of VG School of Nursing and an active community member having served as past president of Colchester Chapter IODE and hospital auxiliary. She co-founded the auxiliary’s coffee shop and was an active member of First Baptist Church, Truro. Betty loved our cottage at Brule and will be missed by all swimming at Smith’s Cove. She loved the outdoors and was an active fan of her children’s sporting activities. Many thanks to the staff of Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Palliative Care and Ward D3, for their loving care of our dear mother.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall – Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro, where Betty’s family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, October 7, 2014. Funeral service will be held 2 p.m., Wednesday, October 8, 2014, in First Baptist Church, 759 Prince Street, Truro, Reverend Paul Worden officiating. Reception will follow in Memorial Hall. Interment in Watson Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donation in Betty’s memory to Colchester East Hants Health Centre Foundation or Alzheimer’s Society of Canada are welcomed. Private messages of condolence may be sent to the family by viewing Betty’s obituary on-line and selecting "Send A Condolence" at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com