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Jean Elizabeth (Betty) Edwards

September 17, 2014

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Betty was born in Quesnel to parents Alice and Chris Helsdon of Kersley. She was schooled at home by correspondence to grade 10. She completed her public education at Quesnel High School and then attended Teachers Normal School in Vancouver graduating in 1950 preparing for teaching jobs in Surrey and Shalalth.

She married Walter Edwards of Kersley in 1953 where they raised five children, while she was actively involved in the Kersley Women’s Institute and Kersley Scouts, Brownies and Guides. Other pursuits were gardening, macramé, singing, basketry and embroidery.

In the late 1970’s, Betty attended UBC summer school to upgrade her teaching certificate. She returned to work in the Quesnel School District as a substitute teacher, finishing her career as the librarian at Baker Elementary.

First published in the Vancouver Sun when she was 10 years old, writing was a lifelong passion for Betty. She became a member of the Quesnel Word Spinners, contributing regularly to their publications. This led to publishing several books of short stories and poems. Her final book will be published posthumously.

Betty was predeceased by parents Alice and Chris Helsdon, Walter, her husband of 53 years and infant daughter Victoria.

She is survived by brother Jim (Marion) Helsdon, daughters Jenny (Clancy) Wolpert, Dolly (Brian) Gilson, sons Ken (Vivian) Edwards, Jim (Julie) Edwards and Bob Edwards, grandchildren Chris & Elden Curtis, Laura Schultz, Carol Wolpert, Chelsea, Danielle & Kimberly Gilson, Megan & Caitlin Edwards, Trent Ghesquiere, Julie Swanson, Felecia (Jared) Fritz and Michael Edwards, great grandchildren Cody Wolpert, Julia Doran, Hunter & Phoenix Ghesquiere, Jade & Fayelene Fritz and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

The memorial service for Betty was held on September 17th at St. John the Divine Anglican Church.

The family requests that donations be made to Quesnel & District Hospice Palliative Care in lieu of flowers.