She held the prestigious role of Superintendent-in-Chief of St John Ambulance and was known for her remarkable achievements and connections with the royal family.
Lady Westbury organized a grand event for over 100,000 children in Hyde Park, which featured a nine-mile-long sausage.
She shared lifelong friendships with Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret, often taking on informal royal duties such as representing Princess Margaret at memorial services and accompanying Prince Andrew on a trip to New York when he was 23 years old.
Born Ursula Mary Rose James on May 6, 1924, in the residence of her grandfather, the Earl of Scarbrough, Lady Westbury had a unique upbringing that included developing friendships with Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret.
The Scarbrough household placed a significant emphasis on first aid, with Ursula being taught artificial respiration at a young age by her grandfather, who was the Prior of St John Ambulance.
Lady Westbury's family background was also noteworthy, as her mother, Lady Serena James, inherited the Lumley Brick Company.
Despite some familial objections to her parents' marriage, Ursula grew up in a quaint setting, surrounded by her father's hybrid roses in Yorkshire during the war years.
Educated at the Convent of the Assumption in Richmond, despite not being a Roman Catholic, Lady Westbury later pursued a career in teaching Montessori to children in London.
She was connected to the social scene of the Bright Young Things through her half-brother Arthur James.
Lady Westbury's marriage to Captain David Bethell marked the start of a notable partnership.
They shared a deep connection with the royal family, with Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret attending their wedding.
The Bethells had a happy family life, eventually settling in Knapton Hall, where they raised their children and welcomed guests from various backgrounds.
Lady Westbury's involvement with St John Ambulance was profound, and in 1983, she took on the role of Superintendent-in-Chief.
She made significant contributions to the organization, including modernizing the women volunteers' uniforms and creating the Badgers group for younger children.
One of Lady Westbury's most memorable achievements was organizing The Great Party in Hyde Park in 1987 to celebrate St John Ambulance's centenary.
Despite facing challenges, such as rain and unforeseen circumstances with the royal box, the event was a success, with Queen Elizabeth II in attendance.
Throughout her life, Lady Westbury remained dedicated to philanthropic causes, raising funds for various charities and serving on committees.
She had a remarkable memory for names and faces, a passion for gardening, and a love for playing bridge.
Lady Westbury lived a fulfilling life, exemplifying strength, humor, and determination.
Lady Westbury will be remembered for her remarkable contributions to St John Ambulance and her unwavering commitment to helping others.
Her legacy lives on through her children, whom she is survived by.
Ursula, Lady Westbury, born on May 6, 1924, passed away on November 25, 2023.