With much sadness, the family of Betty Lorraine El Adam (Willis) announces her passing on December 30, 2025 in Mission, BC, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was wrapped in love and surrounded by family in her final days.
Betty was born on August 28, 1953. Raised by her parents, Len and Hazel Willis, she was the youngest of five siblings. She grew up in the Webster’s Corner area of Maple Ridge, attending Webster’s Corner Elementary School and Garibaldi Secondary School. Even from a young age, Betty was known for her gentle nature, quiet strength, and deep care for others.
In her early twenties, Betty married Mike El Adam. Together they built a thriving business and raised two beautiful and lively daughters, Jennifer and Kayla. Betty became a mother figure to many of her daughters’ friends, extending her heart far beyond her own family and creating a warm, safe environment for all who came into her presence. She was a devoted mother, always protecting her daughters and making them smile with her quirky sense of humour.
Betty later took on a new challenge, carving out a career with Corrections Canada, where she rose to a correctional management position before retiring. She took pride in being balanced, fair, and hardworking – a strong leader with a compassionate heart.
Her heart’s passion could be seen in her garden. After the passing of her eldest daughter, Jennifer, Betty poured her love into her youngest daughter, Kayla, and into nurturing her garden. She lovingly tended her raspberry bushes, grew and gifted colourful dahlias, and happily racked up air miles traveling to Los Angeles to be with Kayla.
Betty was never rushed; she lived with intention and care. She respected all walks of life and taught others to be understanding and compassionate, even in the hardest circumstances.
Her faith in Jesus became her guiding light in her later years. Betty and Kayla shared many meaningful conversations about the Bible, attended church together in both Los Angeles and Mission, and found great peace in trusting God’s plan. It brings Kayla immense comfort knowing that Betty is reunited with Jennifer in Heaven.
Betty will be forever honoured and deeply missed by her daughter, Kayla; her siblings Doug (Bonnie), Bob, Ken (Anna), and Joan (Jouko Astren), as well as her many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Betty’s beautiful life will be held on Saturday, January 24 at 10:00 a.m. at Northview Community Church, 33507 Dewdney Trunk Road, Mission, B.C.
Forever loved, never forgotten.
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