LAURA ELIZABETH "LIBBY" ABBOTT

(nee Wade, July 21, 1936 – January 26, 2026) Laura Elizabeth "Libby" Abbott passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, at the age of 89, after a brief illness. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Donald Peter Abbott; and her sister, Judy Farwell. Libby is survived by her children, Linda Ray (Ian), Peter Abbott (Mong Hoa Tran), and Kim Abbott (Andrew Webb); and her grandchildren, Tyler Ray (Stephanie), Lauren Ray, Nicole Webb, and Pierce and Aislin Abbott. She is also survived by her sister, Jane Merrick (Bruce, deceased); brother-in-law, Peter Farwell; sisters- and brothers-in-law, Alison Abbott (Ted, deceased) Roger Abbott (Carmen); and her special friend, Ken Ackles. The Wade family spent their early years in Renfrew before moving to Toronto, where Libby formed lifelong friendships while attending Blythwood Public School and Havergal College. She pursued nursing and trained for two years at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Montreal. While in Montreal, she met Peter. They were married in Toronto in 1959 and moved west to Vancouver. Peter's career with Arborite later took them to London, England, and back to Montreal, before they eventually settled in Burlington, Ontario. Libby lived a long, rich, and engaging life. She loved the outdoors and fondly remembered her time at Camp Tanamakoon, where she excelled at swimming and canoeing. She had a deep appreciation for art and enjoyed decorating and travel, embracing many adventures over the years. In later years, she was happiest spending time with family and friends at their home in Ellicottville, New York. Libby enjoyed a fulfilling career in art and interior design, starting her own Art company, "Art for the Office" and later earning her ARIDO designation. She later rounded out her professional life working with children with special abilities as a teacher's assistant with the Halton Board of Education. In her later years, Libby enjoyed golf and bridge and remained active in her community. She was involved with Port Nelson United Church, The Roseland Club, Newcomers of Burlington and Probus of Burlington. Libby had many friends in Burlington, Toronto, Montreal, London, England, and Vancouver. She will always be remembered for her special ability to connect with people wherever she went and will be deeply missed by so many. A special thank you to all her caregiving team. The staff and nurses at The Williamsburg and the Burlington Palliative Team. A cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life will take place at a future date. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Canadian Diabetes Society would be appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Smith's Funeral Home, Burlington (905-632-3333, www.smithsfh.com).