Obituary
Betty Lam-Clarke, 71, of Toronto, passed away quietly at home on October 18, 2026. She was a beloved daughter, sister, wife, stepmother, sister-in-law, aunt, and friend, and her presence will be deeply missed.
Born in Toronto, Betty was the eldest daughter of father Yuen Chiu Lam (1929-2015) and mother Kwai Sau Lam. The first of her family to attend University, Betty graduated from the University of Toronto with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology, and a Master of Education degree. A long-time employee of the University of Toronto (at Victoria College then Woodsworth College), Betty spent many years helping to guide the future of countless students.
If asked to use only one word to describe her, that word would be giving. Betty gave her time and energy to help shape family life for her tight knit and loving family. Betty helped fill the home with music, love, and laughter. As the eldest of five children, she was a trailblazer! Barely into her teens, Betty convinced her parents to buy the family their first record player. She bought vinyl records with money that she saved and shared the gift of music with her siblings. She also took them to see their first movie, starting the family’s lifelong love of cinematic wonders. She took them to the library, to the park, the swimming pool, and yes, even shopping. The list is endless. Betty adored her siblings - John, Peter (Maria), Julie (William), and Jenny (John), and was adored in return. Betty's lifelong dedication to family and her giving nature extended to her nieces and nephews: Jessica (Ashley), Jonathan (Isabelle), Jeffrey, Nolan, Lyndsay, and Amy.
Betty was married to Dr. James "Jim" N. Clarke and Summ to his sons, Owen (Carolina), Roger (Becci), and Edwin, and Grandsumm to Alexander, Alaithia, Finley, and Josephine. The Clarke family also shared in the joy of her love and in the richness of her legacy of giving.
A private ceremony will be held by the family.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Betty’s name to the Toronto Daily Food Bank or plant a tree at an organization of your choice.
