Passed away peacefully after an illness at St. Peter’s Hospital on June 22, 2026, in her 83rd year. Beloved wife of the late James Abbey. Loving mother to Daron (Ann-Marie) and Daniel (Leah). Caring grandma of Brendan, Kurtis, Sarah, and Connor. Bette will be sadly missed by her sister-in-law Susan Sherman, her nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins, and many friends including folks at St. Joseph’s Estates and her quilting friends.
Bette was born to William and Gladys Smith (nee Marden) in April 1944. Growing up in Dundas, she attended Dundas Central Public and was in the first graduation year at Parkside Highschool. After attending teachers’ college in Hamilton, Bette worked as a teacher at Yorkview Elementary School until she became a mom in 1972. In addition to volunteering at the boys’ school, she pursued her artistic passions and worked at the Dundas Valley School of Art in the office and served as Registrar. Bette enjoyed traveling, whether it was camping with Jim and her boys, or later cruising with Jim through Europe or traveling in North America, she loved the adventure. Bette was an amazing artist and crafter pursuing home decorating, sewing, knitting, stained-glass making, pottery, but her passion was quilting. When she became a grandmother in 2005, she embraced that role with incredible love and enthusiasm, attending every visit, family dinner, and sporting or school event that she could.
Bette was an artistic, caring, and humble person, with a strong work ethic and a strong will to battle any challenges. She will be greatly missed by so many.
Friends and family are invited to the Turner Family Funeral Home, 53 Main St. Dundas, on Thursday, July 2, 2026, from 4-5pm for a visitation. A Funeral Service will be held on the same day at 5pm followed by a reception with sandwiches and treats. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Bette Abbey to Canadian Cancer Society, St. Peters Hospital or Dundas Community Services.
To view the livestream: https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=1aea2850-f59f-4e11-8930-cc7398369e42
Deepest condolences from all of us at Dundas Valley School of Art. Bette’s time here is still remembered fondly.
Bette was a lovely person, mother and grandmother. Always a friendly face at family gatherings, and considered to be family for us as well. We will miss her.
Karen, Greg, Emma and Noah
We were sorry to learn about the passing of Bette. We extend our sincere sympathies to Daron and Daniel and your families. May you find comfort in the good memories of your Mom and Grandma.
Sincerely, Steve and Norma Smith
(Steve is Bette’s cousin…son of Archie & Isobel Smith)
I had Mrs. Abbey as a teacher at Yorkview the year she went from Miss Smith to Mrs. Abbey. I then had the privilege of seeing her again when she visited her mother in law at SJV as I was a nurse working there at the time. She was one of my favorite teachers and will always remember her as the kind and loving teacher/person that she was. My deepest condolences
Thinking of you all during this difficult time. May warm memories of Bette help sustain you after her passing.
Deepest condolences on Bette’s loss. She will be greatly missed by all. May your memories of your time with her provide you comfort at this difficult time.
Deepest condolences to you all. Bette was always wonderful to our family and I know that you will miss her terribly. Hugs from the west coast.
Our sincere condolences to Bette’s family. A lovely personality and a a beautiful person. Thinking of her family at this difficult time.
Mary Howard & family – 6 daughters – Christina, Cathy, Betsy, Rose,Cheryl,Bonnie
( Cousin Bill Howard )
So sad that we have lost such a good person. I knew better for years and always enjoyed her company, especially at quilting classes and retreats. She loved her family ver much and was devoted to them. I shall miss her laugh. My sincere sympathy to the family.susan king
Bette was a lovely lady and I know mom and dad thought highly of her.
Sincere condolences to the entire family.
Lovely photo of Bette & beautiful tribute. So many happy memories and good times. My heartfelt condolences. Bette will be missed but forever in our thoughts. Gone too soon. Big hug from Vancouver.
We are truly sorry for your loss and wish you comfort and strength in the days ahead.
Dr Seth Houwer & Staff
Our condolences go out to the family of Bette Abbey.sincerely Bryan and Nellie Howard.
To Mrs. Abbey’s family and friends,
I was in her grade3 class the year she married and went from Miss Smith to Mrs Abbey! She was such a great teacher! I was a busy boisterous child but she made me believe I was wonderful just as I was! She made a big difference to a little child! My mom and I snuck into the church to catch a glimpse of her walking down the aisle in her pretty dress! Thank you for the life of Miss Smith/Mrs.Abbey! Hugs to her family.