Elizabeth "Bette" Strand, 94, of Ashland passed away Saturday March 18th.  Born in Framingham, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Helen (Ryan) Booth and wife of the late Erlenge "Tex" Strand who died in 2009.  A lifelong resident of Ashland, Bette worked as the assistant town clerk in Ashland from 1979-1987.  She enjoyed traveling with her husband after their retirement and will be remembered as a devoted wife and mother who always put her family first.

Mrs. Strand is survived by two children, Sharon Boffey of Lebanon, NH, and Michael Strand and his wife Linda of Westboro, four grandchildren, David and Adam Boffey, and Justin and Alison Strand, and one great-grandson, Jackson.  She was the sister of the late Helen Higgins.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday Mar. 25th at 9:00am in St. Cecilia's Parish, 54 Esty St. Ashland with burial to follow in Wildwood Cemetery in Ashland.  Calling hours will be held Friday from 5:00-7:00 PM in the Matarese Funeral Home, 325 Main St. in Ashland.  In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, 58 Progress Parkway,  Maryland Heights, MO 63043-3706