Obituary of Betty Rafuse

Rafuse, E. "Betty" - 86, of Upper Granville, Anna Co. passed away at home August 18, 2014 surrounded by her family, friends and beloved cat "Lovey". Born in Croydon, England, she was a daughter of the late Arthur and Clara Rose (Simpson) Biles. Due to World War II, she had to leave school at 14 years of age. She was a telephone operator at Scotland Yard - a telephonist. Having met Clyde "Ray" overseas, Betty came to Canada as a War Bride, arriving at Pier 21 on the Queen Mary on August 31, 1946 at the tender age of 18. How proud she was to be a War Bride. She was actively involved in the Nova Scotia War Brides Association being its' Treasure for 18 years and becoming a life member. Betty also enjoyed very much her participation with the Bridgetown Legion Branch 033. She also held the position of Secretary with the Ladies Auxiliary for over 40 years and was also a life member. She was a member of St. James Anglican Church, Bridgetown; active in choir and Altar Guild. She worked many years as a telephone operator in Bridgetown until dial tone came. Betty could still tell you some of those numbers. She then went on to work for Sears, where she retired in 1983. Betty enjoyed writing letters, many letters, and reading and never met a piece of chocolate she didn't like. Her greatest pleasure were her daughters, grand and great grandchildren. She is survived by daughters, Janice Lawrence, Clarence and Monica Rafuse (Bill), Vancouver, B.C.; grandchildren, John Ray (Jennifer) Lawrence, Clarence, Jennifer Lawrence (Jake), Clarence, Dagny McCartney, Vancouver, B.C.; great Nanny to Lillian, Clara, and Felicity; several nieces and nephews both here and in England. Besides her parents, Betty was predeceased by husband, Clyde "Ray"; sister, Joyce Winter; brothers, Stanley, Ronald, and Bert Biles; son in-law, John Lawrence. The family would like to thank all those whom made it possible for her to remain home to the end. Visitation will be held 7-9 pm Wednesday August 20 from the Kaulbach Family Funeral Home, Bridgetown, with the Legion having a service at 7:00pm. A funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Thursday from St. James Anglican Church, Bridgetown, with Rev. Joel Hardy officiating. Donations in Betty's memory may be sent to Canadian Cancer Society, VON or charity of choice. On line condolences may be sent to www.kaulbachfamilyfuneralhome.com