Apr 24, 2022

GREGORY

Betty Marie Gregory of Calgary, Alberta passed away peacefully at Bethany Calgary on Sunday, April 24, 2022 at the age of 89 years.

Betty was born on the Door Key Ranch near Fort Macleod, Alberta on September 21, 1932 to Jim and Mary McNab. She had many happy memories growing up in the family of nine children. At a young age, Betty developed a love for the outdoors – and horses – as she worked alongside her dad. She carried that passion forward throughout her life. When Betty was a young woman she loved to dance, and that is where she met the love of her life, Gordon "Demps" Gregory, a young Air Force officer. They were married on April 18, 1953 in Claresholm, Alberta and lived in many communities across Canada for the next several years, finally settling in Calgary. Together they shared the joy of raising five children: Don, Lonnie, Karen, David, and Gary. In 1978 Betty and Demps were able to pursue their dream and started their own broodmare farm, Down Home Acres, in Delacour, Alberta where they raised Standardbred horses. In 1990 Betty moved with her husband to Meridian Farms near High River, Alberta, where she continued to help breed excellent race horses. Over the years they were awarded with numerous honours; most notably, the Breeders’ Cup Trophy and in 2004, the Breeder of the Year Award. Betty and Demps resided in the High River area for many years, eventually retiring fully and moving into town. Betty loved to spend time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She enjoyed many hobbies, although she was best known for her stunningly gorgeous gardens and incredible paintings.

Betty is survived by her cherished family: her children, Don Gregory of High River; Lonnie (Ron) Harty of Calgary; Karen Wilson of Chippawa, Ontario; and Gary (Lisa) Gregory of Yanchep, Australia; her daughter-in-law Julie Allan of High River; as well as eight treasured grandchildren: Gordie, Jessica, Shea (Jessica), Tanis (Steve), Kelsey (Marvin), Carlee (Craig), Baylee, and Cleo; and ten precious great grandchildren: Zack, Paige, Arianna, Donovan, Kaylee, Brooklyn, Kai, Kaden, Milarose, and Remi. She will also be lovingly remembered by four sisters, Grace Kennedy of Fort Macleod; Ruby (Eric) Thomsen of Vernon, B.C.; Jean Anderson of Fort Macleod; and Bonnie (Jim) Murphy of Calgary; in addition to numerous nieces and nephews, additional family members, and many close friends. Betty was predeceased by her parents, Jim and Mary; her husband of 61 years, Demps in 2014; her son David in 2019; one brother Bob; three sisters: Pat Sterling, Josie Burrows, and Marjorie MacLennan; along with many in-laws and other relatives.

"Betty will be forever remembered by her loving family ... and will be sadly missed."

A Celebration of Betty’s Life was held at the Royal Canadian Legion – Chapelhow Branch 284, 606 – 38 Avenue NE, Calgary on Tuesday, May 10, 2022 at 2:00 p.m., with the Reverend Nancy Nourse officiating. She was laid to rest beside her beloved husband at a Family Interment Service in the Highwood Cemetery, High River at 10:30 a.m., with the Reverend David Robertson presiding. If friends desire, memorial tributes in Betty’s memory may be made directly to Bethany Calgary - Unit 2 East, 916 - 18A Street NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1C6. Condolence messages may be forwarded to the family by visiting: www.ofc-ltd.ca

*The pre-recorded memorial service video for Betty is no longer available for viewing.

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