Betty Martha Rafuse

Rafuse, Betty Martha – 94, of Clarence, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 11, 2026 in the Veterans’ Unit of Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital, Middleton. Born in Woods Harbour, she was a daughter of the late John Allister and Evelyn Viona (Malone) Atwood.

Betty worked in an administrative role with Simpson-Sears in Halifax for many years. In her younger years, she enjoyed dancing, bowling and writing poems. Betty made friends easily and was always available to sit and talk about whatever was on your mind. She kept her loved ones close throughout her life. In more recent years, Betty found great entertainment in participating in the activities in the Veterans' Unit and chatting with the staff and volunteers. She particularly enjoyed thinking up nicknames for everyone.

Surviving is her daughter, Wendy Lund, Clarance; grandchildren, Natasha Lane (Doug Tufts), Nicki Doyle, Marty Doyle (Janelle Pinc), Raph Rafuse (Lesley), Ginette Rafuse, Heather Noseworthy (Gerard), Kate Beaudoin (Michael), and Adam Rafuse (Kerrin); five great grandchildren Zee, Maggie, Natalie, Ashton and Amelia; and one great great grandchild Oaklynn; nieces and nephews with special mention of Les Smith (Jenn) and Doug Smith (Bonnie); daughter-in-law Elaine Rafuse.

Along with her parents, she was predeceased by her special friend, David Saunders; daughter Sharon Lane; granddaughter Betty- Jo Lane; stepchildren Diane, Gary, and David Rafuse; sister Iona Smith and brother Jackie Atwood, son-in-law David Lane and daughter-in-law Eileen Rafuse.

The family would like to thank all the staff and the volunteers of the Veterans’ Unit for going above and beyond in the wonderful care and support during Betty’s five years living there. She had a wonderful second family there and made many friends.

There will be a Celebration of Life for Betty at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 14, 2026 in Middleton Funeral Home, 398 Main Street, 1-855-825-3448. Rev. Swies Ubels officiating. A reception will follow. A private interment will be held at a later date in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Woods Harbour. Donations in memory of Betty may be made to Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital Foundation. Online guestbook may be signed by visiting: www.middletonfuneralhome.com