Elizabeth ARMSTRONG Obituary

Kia Ora to the Armstrong family. Betty was my steady, cheerful, no-nonsense, inspirational mentor, and supported me in a new career in Early Childhood Music over many years at Massey Childcare course and Wellington College of Education. Her influence on generations of early childhood teachers and therefore their charges, is huge. I share in the family sense of loss, and their celebration of a life well lived. Naku iti nei, Helen Willberg

Dear Armstrongs,
So sad to hear about Betty.
She made a big impact on my life when i meet her back in 1981 as a student in her childcare course.
That was a very special year for me and i have lived by many of the principals she instilled in us.Her legacy lives on in the the early childhood community . much love Thomasin

Warm sympathies in fondest memories of Betty, with whom I had a such a wonderful close connection to. Betty and I kept in touch for years, from when she helped tutor me at high school due to learning difficulties. From numerous afternoon tea and cakes, to email updates on the latest happenings, after I moved up to Auckland. I will always remember a selfless caring guide and friend for life who had time for anyone. Rest in peace lovely Betty.

Thinking of you all at this very sad time and remembering the wonderful, kind, compassionate,warm and wise woman Betty was. Arohanui.

Dear Armstrong's,
I want to extend my deepest sympathy at the passing of Betty and the gulf she will leave to all her wider family and friends with her passing.
I like so many others have benefited from knowing Betty and just one of her legacy projects in the form of Brooklyn Playcentre which I understand she co founded with Gwen Deveraux and another lady in the early 60s when I was growing up around the family and hanging out everywhere with Ian. she made the most delicious hot cross buns !!! and later Jenny too. there are many positive and wonderful memories I have from many years around the Armstrong household and Betty somehow seemed to chaperone a home that was always full of life, fun and so welcoming and open.
She helped be a wonderful part of the life of so many.
Take care of each other and remember and celebrate the life and times of this wonderful lady.
BEST
David Whyte

I have written a personal tribute for Betty about her advocacy for childcare and ECE during the 1970s-80s when I knew her and worked with her. She had a profound influence on my academic career. The pdf will not attach to this message but if family or friends would like a copy please email at
[email protected]. I have circulated my tribute around some wellington ECE networks. In 1984 I interviewed Betty for my doctoral thesis on the lives of women in the postwar years as mothers workers and wives. This was later published as a book Minding Children Managing Men (1992). I still have the hard copy of Betty's interview if family do not have a copy and would like it.

Dear Jenny, Donald, Ian, Dave and families
We are so sorry for your loss.
We have fond memories of Betty's warm hospitality and good conversation over pots of tea at the dining table. There were always interesting stories for her to recount.
Betty certainly left you all a treasure of memories to reflect on.
We regret not being able to join you for her service of remembrance and send you our love.
Rob and Mandy

Dear Dave and family, we were so sorry to hear of Betty´s passing. She was such a lovely person. Best wishes, Paul and Judy