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(Betty in her favorite restaurant (Bellisimo) on the Esplanade in downtown Toronto)
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Elizabeth “Betty” Anne O’Connell. Betty passed away peacefully in Toronto (Mount Sinai hospital) on Thursday January 2, 2025 at the age of 80.
Born and raised in Limerick, Ireland to parents Thomas O’Connell and Hannie (ne: Hanora) Nash of Killinahan, Patrickswell, Co Limerick, Ireland, Betty immigrated to Canada in 1974, and has been a resident ever since.
Dear Loving cousin of Kathleen Leddin former mayor of Limerick, Ireland, and sister of Bridie, predeceased by sister Peggy, and brother Patrick, cousin Brigadier Pat Nash, Marion Cooney, Norah Fitzgibbon, and Maureen O’Connell. Beloved long term best friend of Sarah White of Toronto (wife of Stephen C. Armstrong who was responsible for caring for Betty both during and after her life). Betty will be fondly remembered by her many loving and loyal Toronto friends, notably Veronica, Kitty, Louise Grande, Jennifer, Sharri, Claire, Marion, Mandy, Rosannah, and her care givers Louise Clyne, and “The” Catherine.
Betty was known to be a successful self-directed independent business owner, and was always warm, and welcoming in her home. She was widely travelled in Latin American and Europe. She will be remembered for her “can do” attitude. She took pride in her personal appearance, and inspired others to do the same. As a qualified cosmetologist she provided decades of beauty consultation in various cosmetic companies. Betty touched many lives and will be missed dearly by everyone that knew her, and there were many both in the Toronto Irish community, and in her work community.
A celebration of life will be held in April / May 2025 at a venue to be announced.
Betty will be laid to rest in Limerick, Ireland, and Toronto, Ontario, Canada at a later time.
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7 Guestbook Entries
January 11, 2025 | Timothy Kinnaird
She was a lovely person and spirit.
January 13, 2025 | Stuart Adair
So sorry to hear about Betty, may she rest in peace.
January 16, 2025 | Bernard
I was one of Betty’s neighbors and was sad to hear of her passing, a very glamorous woman and always a joy to chat to in the lobby (I was so pleased to find I had a fellow Irish neighbor). RIP Betty
January 14, 2025 | Kim Challenger
Condolences to Stephen and Sarah on their loss. Always sad to lose a good friend. I know that you both looked after her like family and it sounds as if she had such a good and active life which we all hope for. Well loved and a life well lived.
January 20, 2025 | Jennifer Henry
My Dear friend, mentor and teacher @ SENECA College. Betty truly believed in me and supported my ambitions to complete my education within Cosmetic’. Betty was a lady first and a beautiful soul. I am Truly saddened by her death. Rest in peace my dear irish friend of 35 years. Love you always. Jennifer Henry.
February 18, 2025 | Beryl Haines
Vale to my dear friend from great Toronto days!
April 5, 2025 | Shirley Forbes
My deepest condolences to Sarah and Steven .Betty was a dear friend of mine. We worked in the cosmetics & fragrance industry in many locations here in Toronto. After she retired we would meet for breakfast or lunch. She had a great sense of humour and l loved to listen to her talk about her travels. She was a beautiful, fun loving, well travelled, classy lady. I will miss her smile & laughter but l will never forget the memories we shared.