Betty Elaine Dernier – 84, Truro, passed away peacefully, with her loving family at her side, on Tuesday, February 10, 2015, at Debert Court, Debert. Born May 14, 1930, in Amherst Point, she was a daughter of the late Aubrey and Alice (Collicutt) Forrest.
Betty was a member of Brunswick Street United Church, where she sang in the choir and was a member of the UCW. She graduated from the Normal College in 1950, pursued her teaching career in Cumberland County, and in 1970, moved with her family to Truro. A true family woman, she encouraged and supported her children in all their activities and also volunteered her time with different organizations for which she canvassed and helped in other ways. She also was a caregiver for children and elderly people.
Betty is survived by her daughters, Sheila Dernier (Stephen Boyd), Truro; Christina (Reverend Ian) Wissler, Mahone Bay; son, Colin, Lower Sackville; daughter-in-law, Arlene Barkhouse, Fall River; grandchildren, Alexander, Nicolas, Lauren, Jonah; sisters, Mona (Ron) McKinley, Halifax; Dora Craig, Blackfalds, Alberta; brother, George (Carol) Forrest, Amherst; several nieces and nephews. Along with her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Donald Chapman Dernier. Special thanks are extended to Dr. Slipp, Dr. Shen and the staff at Debert Court for their wonderful care of our mother.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall – Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro, where Betty’s family will receive friends from 4-7 p.m., Monday, February 16, 2015. Funeral service will be held 1 p.m., Tuesday, February 17, 2015, in Brunswick Street United Church, 250 Brunswick Street, Truro, Reverend John Parsons officiating. Reception will follow in the dining hall. Spring interment in Bible Hill Cemetery. Family flowers only. If so desired, donations in Betty’s memory to Brunswick Street United Church, Canadian Diabetes Association. Alzheimer Society or a charity of choice are welcomed. Private messages of condolence may be sent to the family by viewing Betty’s obituary online and selecting "Send A Condolence" at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com