Obituary of Bette McDonough

McDONOUGH, Bette Jean (née Head)

On October 21, 2018, our beloved Bette passed peacefully in her sleep at the age of 90. Predeceased by her late husband James Harvey McDonough (1998). Devoted mother to Danna, Al (Kit), Bill (Linda) and Shane (Kim). Dearest Nana to grandsons Gabriel (Rebecca), Ryan, Jesse (Ruth), Bill and her only granddaughter Jade. Proud great-grandmother to Evelyn and Fiona; Adonis and Anna. Bette is further survived by her long-time companion Gerry Taylor, and predeceased by her parents Hazel and Clarence Head of Westover, and her only sister Melba Dawson.

Bette had a zest for life, striking out on her own when she was only 15 years of age, working in a bakery and then as a dental assistant. Later in life she became a retailer in many well-known establishments including Friedman’s, Wallace’s and The Right House. She was always recognizable in stores or fashion shows as the blonde wearing sparkles and a beautiful smile. Bette was our fashionista matriarch, even in her senior years. Bette loved going to the cottage to relax and watch her children and grandchildren at Gould Lake. Nobody could bake like Bette – her butter tarts, pies and cheesecakes were unmatched. Whether cheering on her hockey team, her children, grandchildren or great-grandchildren, she always did so with enthusiasm and style. She was an active member of Grantham United Church and volunteered with the Out of the Cold program.

Bette was a warm, one of a kind lady and will be greatly missed by so many. A special thanks to the staff at the Henley House for their unwavering care and compassion throughout Bette’s 6 month stay.

The McDonough family will receive family and friends at the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL HOME, 585 Carlton St., St. Catharines on Sunday October 28, 2018 from 2-4 p.m. with a Celebration of Bette’s Life to follow immediately at 4 p.m. in the ceremony room. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Alzheimer’s Society of Niagara would be appreciated by the family.