Obituary of Elizabeth Joyce O'Toole

O’TOOLE, Elizabeth Joyce “Betty”  - age 93, of Lower Selma, passed away peacefully at home January 7, 2021. Born in Lower Selma, she was a daughter of the late Rexford and Ruby (Spares) McKeil.

Education was very important to Betty, she received her BA and BED from UNB, MA and MED from SMU and she also studied theology at The Atlantic School of Theology, Halifax.  She was a teacher and a lay minister. She loved poetry, history and genealogy; she was an author, and wrote 3 books. Betty had a great sense of wit and was a lifelong learner.

Betty is survived by her children, Kathryn Bourgeois, Sharon Nutter, Hollis O’Toole (Karen), Joyce O’Toole (Dave Ivany), and her loving son, Murray O’Toole who spent the last several years caring for his mom. Also survived by daughter-in-law, Kathy O'Toole; several grandchildren and great grandchildren, whom she adored; brother, Douglas McKeil; sister, Ada Campbell.

Betty is predeceased by her husband Charles Leroy O’Toole; son, Malcolm O’Toole; grandchildren, Christopher and Sara; brother, Alan McKeil; sons-in-law, Keith Bourgeious and Kirk Nutter.

Cremation has taken place under the care and direction of Ettinger Funeral Home, Shubenacadie. A private graveside service will be held at a later date.

Donations in memory of Betty can be made to the East Hants Historical Society or the VON.

The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the staff of VON for their wonderful care of Betty.

Tributes, words of comfort and memories of Betty may be shared with the family at: www.ettingerfuneralhome.com