Erskine, Rita - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Rita Erskine at the age of 85, on Monday, Feb 8, 2021 in the Halifax Infirmary QEII, Halifax.
She was the youngest daughter of Paul and Annie (Gillard) Lilly. She grew up on Exploits Islands, Newfoundland and throughout her life it continued to be her cherished home.
Working as a nurse in Middle Musquodoboit, Rita met her husband, John. They raised their three children in Upper Musquodoboit. To be closer to her growing family, Rita left the hospital and they built an addition to their home where she operated Erskine Rest Home for many years.
Rita was active in the community as a member of the local chapter of the Women’s Institute and with St. James United Church where she played the church organ for many years. She always enjoyed the opportunity to play the old pump organ in church. Rita also enjoyed travelling to Women's Institute conventions and with other tour groups.
After losing her only son in 1986 and John in 1993, Rita moved to Dartmouth to be closer to her girls. This was a whole new chapter for Rita and she quickly settled into city life enjoying aqua aerobic classes at Cole Harbour Place, lawn bowling at Dartmouth Lawn Bowls Club and volunteering at Oakwood Terrace Nursing Home. She was an avid quilter and knitter and she taught craft classes for many years. For the last few years she enjoyed her new home on Baker Dr. where she was able to join friends for games, meals and a few laughs.
Rita is survived by her daughters, Rosalyn (David Zannie) in Dartmouth and Regina in Halifax; along with her brother, Cliff (Netta Boyd) of Lewisporte, N.L.; her sister, Mabel (Manuel) of St. John’s, N.L.; and her sisters-in-law, Louise Lilly of Halifax and Kay Lilly of Windsor, Ont. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her son, Rod at the age of 22 in 1986; and her husband, John in 1993. She was also predeceased by her brothers, Harvey, Neil, and Claude; and her sisters, Telsie (Hoover) and Marion (Hoyles).
A celebration of Rita’s life will be held in Woodlawn United Church on Monday, February 22 at 2 p.m., with Rev. Mary Lynne Whyte officiating. Due to COVID restrictions, attendance will be by invitation only. There will be a live steam of the service at Woodlawn United Church via Facebook Live - https://www.facebook.com/WoodlawnUnitedChurch. The service will also be available later through Woodlawn United Church You Tube channel.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hope for Wildlife.
Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.
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Forever in our hearts
