Elizabeth Joan Sterling

Bette Elizabeth Stirling, born in 1933 in Montreal Quebec, passed away peacefully in her sleep after a long and courageous battle with dementia. She was 92.

Bette was the beloved daughter of Elspeth (Nannie) Howlett and Herbert Howlett.

Her family was her heart and she poured her love into every moment spent with them.

Adventurous and spirited, Bette lived across Canada - from the shores of New Brunswick to the mountains of British Columbia - embracing each new chapter with curiosity and grace. Her life was rich with stories and laughter and the kind of wisdom that only comes from experience.

Bette is predeceased by her husband Don Stirling and her brother Gerry Bourgeois. She is survived by her six children David Upton (Constance Huyer), Kelly Upton (Brenda), Ellen Hendrix, Anne Taylor(Cam predeceased), Peter Upton, Jennifer Weis (Craig) and her two step children Evan and Tracy Stirling; her 11 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Each of them carries a piece of her legacy - her warmth, her resilience and her deep devotion to family.

Bette’s faith was a guiding light. She was deeply involved in her church, where she touched countless lives with her kindness, generosity and quiet strength. In her later years, she became a cherished presence in her church community and among her extended family.

Throughout her life Bette pursued two careers with dedication and pride; first with the Canadian Postal Service and later as a sales executive with MacCosham Van Lines. Her work ethic and charm left a lasting impression wherever she went.

Bette will be remembered for her boundless love, and her adventurous spirit. Her family and friends will miss her dearly, but her memory will live on in the stories we share and the love she gave so freely.

Funeral mass and service will be held at St Clairs of Assisi Parish Coquitlam, Friday June 5, 2026 at 11am . Reception to follow.

St Clare | Welcome to St Clare of Assisi Parish Coquitlam

In lieu of flowers Donations in her memory may be made to the Dementia Society by going to :

Donate in memory or in honour | Alzheimer Society of Canada

“I don't believe that grief passes away. It has its time and place forever. More time is added to it; it becomes a story within a story. But grief and griever alike endure.”

― Wendell Berry