Elizabeth “Betty” Alice McLaughlin, resident of Grande Prairie, passed away on Monday, October 1, 2018, at Grande Prairie Care Centre, at the age of 99 years.

Betty was born February 26, 1919 to Glen Leslie pioneers Ross and Annie Wales and raised in a log house on the Wales’ farm. Betty Wales met Neil McLaughlin as a teenager and married him at the age of 21 in 1940, and lost him in 1969. A lifetime Grande Prairie resident, Betty lived at the Wild Rose Villa/Manor for the last 15 years.

Betty was a remarkable woman. She was the epitome of love: love for her family, love for her friends, and love for humankind, with no judgment from her. She made everyone feel welcome and comfortable. Retorts were the norm with her quick wit and sense of humour.

She will be sadly missed by her children: Aileen (Gordon) Bayley, Ross (Nancy) McLaughlin, Gail (Richard) Forster, Bill (Jocelyn) McLaughlin, and Bonnie (Duane) LaValley; 14 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, and 8 great great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her parents Ross and Annie Wales; husband Neil McLaughlin; brothers: Alfred, Charlie and Jack; and numerous other family members.

Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 6, 2018, at 1:00pm, Oliver's Funeral Home in Grande Prairie (10005 107 Ave.).

Memorial donations may be made to: “Glen Leslie Cemetery. In memory of Betty McLaughlin – bench.” Proceeds to be used for the Ross and Charlie Wales appreciation bench. (Mail to County of Grande Prairie #1, 10001 84 Ave., Clairmont, AB, T8X 5B2).

Betty McLaughlin’s family would like to thank everyone for all the expressions of sympathy on her passing. The cards, food, phone calls, and donations in her memory were very much appreciated. Thank you also to Oliver’s Funeral Home for their assistance in our time of need.