Betty Lorraine Baird

Betty Lorraine Baird, 85, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2026, in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Born on December 14, 1940, in Cayuga, Ontario, Canada, Betty lived a life marked by resilience and compassion.

Betty was a devoted mother to David Hansen (Lucia) and Karen Hansen and a proud grandmother to Jacob and Lucas Hansen. She was predeceased by her parents, Fred and Jessie Baird, and by her sister and best friend, Donna Garside. She will be lovingly remembered by her extended family and many dear friends. She also leaves behind her beloved ragdoll cat, Maggie—her pride and joy—who has been lovingly rehomed with a family friend. Maggie was deeply cherished and brought her immeasurable comfort and happiness.

During her childhood and teenage years, she shared a love of dance with her sister, studying both tap and ballet under the guidance of Florence Clough and performing in numerous dance recitals. She later joined the Victoria Girls Drill Team, where she advanced through the ranks and took on a role in mentoring new members, helping them learn the techniques and routines performed in parades.

A woman of vibrant energy and enthusiasm, Betty was a passionate sports car enthusiast whose playful spirit brought joy to everyone around her. She found delight in playing the piano, teaching herself by ear and bringing music to life in her own unique and heartfelt way. Her deep love for animals was evident not only in the care she gave her own pets but also in her generous support of the BCSPCA. In the early 1990s, she volunteered with the Pacific Animal Therapy Society (PATS), where she and her daughter visited care homes with their dear pets, a Himalayan Persian named Chico and a Siberian Husky named Sasha, bringing comfort, companionship, and joy to residents.

Betty dedicated over 20 years of her career to the CRD Health Unit at the Saanich Centre, where she was known for her strong work ethic, reliability, and warm, approachable nature. She took pride in her role and built lasting relationships with both colleagues and the many people she supported through her work. Her time there reflected her natural compassion and desire to help others, qualities that carried through all aspects of her life.

Following her retirement, Betty embraced the opportunity to devote more time to her passions, particularly her volunteer work. She continued to give back to her community with the same generosity and enthusiasm that defined her professional life, focusing her energy on causes close to her heart.

As a cancer survivor, Betty's strength and determination were an inspiration to many. She gave back by volunteering with the Canadian Cancer Society, where she offered kindness and dignity to individuals undergoing treatment by cutting their hair—a true reflection of her compassion and selflessness.

Betty's legacy is one of kindness, generosity, and unwavering compassion. Her memory will remain forever cherished by those who knew her. May her life continue to inspire acts of love and care in others.

Deepest gratitude is extended to the doctors, nurses, paramedics, and staff at the Royal Jubilee Hospital for the compassion, kindness, and care shown to Betty and her daughter during this incredibly difficult time.

Messages of condolence may be left for the family here.

In honour of Betty's memory, donations can be made to the BC SPCA and/or the Pacific Animal Therapy Society.

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