We lost a magnificent woman, mother, grandmother, aunt, great aunt, friend, and a force in the media world.
Bettie Bradley, aged 94, passed away on January 9 at Sunrise Seniors residence in Burlington, Ontario surrounded by her kids. She died peacefully from natural causes.
Whether Bettie was a big part of your life, or you met her briefly, she left an impression. Her impeccable elegance, beautiful smile and stylish hats were her trademark. But it was her intelligence, warmth and positivity that made Bettie the special person she was. Bettie loved life and cherished those that were in it. If you were in her orbit, she was your champion.
Bettie leaves behind three children; John Bradley (Simone), Jane Bradley (Michael Stefnitz) and Meghan Bradley (Paul Bodden). Plus, her beautiful grandchildren: Stefanie Bradley, Michael Bradley, Bradley Stefnitz, Jason Stefnitz, Madison Bodden, Mackenzy Bodden, Davis Bodden and Christopher Bradley.
Bettie was predeceased by her sister, Rene Brown, and nephew Derek, and she missed them dearly. She remained close to Rene’s son, Brian (Lyn), their children Jordan, Darcy (Tamara) and was a loving great aunt to their son Carter; Allana (Derek) and her children Jeremy (Lindy Olden) and Jeremy’s children Jacob and Dylan; Amanda and her son Alessandro; and Tori (Dave Little).
Bettie started her long and successful career as a columnist at the Mississauga Times writing about her family, her divorce and her friendships (the original blog). She was soon promoted to Community Editor. Then magazine publishing beckoned, and Bettie became the editor of Beauté magazine (Shoppers Drug Mart’s beauty magazine at the time). Entrepreneurship called and she launched her own magazine called All About You and later sold it to Family Communications where she stayed for the next 35 years as VP and was the only woman on the Board of Directors. At Family Communications, Bettie was notably the editor-in-chief of Today’s Bride magazine and worked side-by-side with her daughters. Bettie always said she felt blessed to be able to work with her family. (All About You was later sold to Transcontinental Publishing.)
In 1994 Bettie was included in the Canadian Who’s Who – a time honoured reference book, which profiles the most noteworthy Canadians.
Bettie’s career also included a presence on television, where she co-hosted The New You (with Miss Universe Karen Baldwin). This pioneering makeover show ran on CHCH for eight years in the 80s. She always said it was the most fun as they produced eight shows a day. At 88, Bettie wrote and published The Wedding Expert, 400 Things You Need to Know to Plan Your Big Day, which was sold across Canada. The promotional campaign included a full book tour with appearances on The Social on CTV and Steven and Chris on CBC.
Bettie’s life was extraordinary and well lived. She always said she had an angel on her shoulder with all her good fortune. Bettie traveled the world, had many dear friends and loved her work. But most of all loved and cherished her family. Life was an adventure for Bettie and what an adventure it was.
She will be missed.
Read Less
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Bettie Jean Bradley Blight Sunday January 9th 2022..
Death notice for the town of: , Province: Ontario
I remember reading Ms Bradley’s columns in the Mississauga Times. I always felt a bond with Ms. Bradley because forty-two years ago (how time flies) when I was in grade eight, our teacher asked the class for all students of divorced parents to raise their hands. Only two did. Me, and Meghan. Even four decades ago divorce was not as prevalent as it is today (either that, or our fellow classmates were reluctant to raise their hands and admit that their parents had split). So I always felt a bond with Meghan, and I cherished the copies of All About You magazine she brought to class. The early magazine, before it was renamed to simply You, was a stunning piece of work. Glossy pages, high-quality paper and well written. I saved all my issues. When Ms. Bradley came into the library where I worked to do some research, she approached me, and I was–honestly–a little star-struck. Dressed in black with her signature matching hat, she epitomized great style and glamour. Although my demographic may not have been her target audience when she launched her TV show “The New You (with Bettie Bradley)”, I was a faithful watcher, and can still tell you the names of all the panelists to this day. She defined style, good conversation skills, beauty and etiquette. I always admired Ms. Bradley and extend my sympathies to her family and all those who liked and admired her.