Red Cross stalwart Beth Bail farewelled

Stalwart Beth Bail (90), who died on August 14, was in the Red Cross for almost 60 years.

She was ever grateful for its support of family taken prisoner in Germany in World War II.

Over the years, the Red Cross life member helped raise thousands of dollars for the organisation’s work, including tsunami victims.

Mrs Bail joined Mt Barker Red Cross in 1958, was a foundation member at Yanchep-Two Rocks in 1977 and foundation president at Heathridge in 1981.

In 2009, with daughter Margaret Long and other foundation members, she sadly attended Heathridge unit’s wind-up, prompted by an ageing, dwindling membership.

Mrs Bail (90) retained a keen interest in the organisation and was an avid reader of the Weekender and sister paper the Times, often providing items for publication.

Born Beth Philippson in Roebourne in 1923, she grew up in Kalgoorlie showing early signs of a strong community spirit.

She helped in a second-hand shop, became a Sunday school teacher and cubmaster and later joined the Australian Women’s Army.

Married in 1945, Mrs Bail and husband Charlie farmed at Narrikup where, despite the hard work, she still had time to fundraise for community groups.

They moved to Perth in 1977. Charlie died 20 years later.

‘Beth was devoted to her three children, seven grandchildren and nine great grandchildren,’ daughter Sandra Romeyn said in her eulogy.

‘She was only a phone call away if anyone needed her.

‘Her life was extremely busy but she made everyone a priority and we are forever grateful to have had her in our lives.’