Obituary of Betty Doreen Stevens

It is with profound sadness that the family of Betty Doreen Stevens announce her passing on Sunday April 12, 2026. Betty, formerly of Coles Island, Sussex and Codys, has been recently residing in her home in Willow Grove, near Saint John, NB to be near her daughter and other family. Betty was born on October 09, 1930, at Coles Island, NB, the daughter of Walter and Bessie (Phillips) Silk. She is predeceased by her husband of 55 years, Robert Bruce Stevens, her siblings Primrose, Cardiff, Emery, Leonard, and Norma; a granddaughter; a great-grandson; a daughter-in-law, and a son-in-law. Betty was the last remaining member of her husbands and her family's generation. Betty was a long-time member of the Coles Island Baptist Church, but also a member for several years at Faith Baptist Church in Sussex.

Betty grew up in Coles Island and met and married Bob, who cherished her for her sense of humour, hard work and good looks. They were married in 1948 and over the next 15 years they welcomed 10 children into their home. For many years, Betty ran their mixed farm while Bob worked away. She was not afraid of hard work, was a wonderful cook, a kind and giving friend, and an active church member who was devoted to the LORD. She helped guide all 10 of her children through high school and many onto college and university. Betty was patient, kind and generous and was seldom given to complaining. Her friendships were sincere and meaningful, and she was deeply respected and cherished by a wide circle of neighbours, friends, and extended family.

Betty is survived by her 10 children; Robert (late Sue) of Upper Coverdale, NB; Margie Smith of Fredericton, NB; Barak (Val) of Coles Island, NB; Bruce (Debra) of Milford, Maine; Liz Stevens-Pye (Bob) of Lower Sackville, NS; John (Karen) of Quispamsis, NB; Mary Ellen MacNeill (late Ted) of Willow Grove, NB; David (Tami) of Blacks Harbor, NB; Mark (Heather) of Coles Island, NB; Jeffery (Carla) of Cold Lake, AB; 25 grandchildren; and 35 great-grandchildren.

Though she was 95, Betty was still funny, caring, inquisitive, and continued her love of jig-saw puzzling and reading her Bible. She was incredibly proud of her 10 children who were all healthy and successful, and that she was 73 percent British! In recent years she was an active "MeeMa" to several of her grandkids and great grandkids that lived nearby, often treating them to cookies and ice cream. Betty was so very thankful she could stay in her own home until her final days. Betty passed away peacefully with family at her side.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Wallace Funeral Home, 34 Sunnyside Drive, in Sussex, NB, where there will be visitation with the family on Tuesday April 21 between 3-7pm. A funeral service will be conducted at the Coles Island Baptist Church on Wednesday April 22 at 10:30 AM, followed by a brief burial service. As the church has limited seating, the family hopes you will join them at the former Coles Island Elementary School at 12.30 pm for an informal reception if you are unable to attend the service.

Donations in memory of Betty may be made to the Canadian Diabetic Association, Coles Island Baptist Church, or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Personal condolences to the family and donations may be made through wallacefuneralhome.com.