McKinley, Florence Mary – Age 83, Dartmouth. It is with a deep, profound sadness and loss we announce the sudden passing of Florence Mary McKinley on the afternoon of June 8, 2015 in Dartmouth General Hospital, with family at her side. Born in Sydney, she was a daughter of the late John Joseph and Katherine Mary (McPhee) Gillis. She is survived by her children, Mark (Cheryl), Beth (Denis) LeClair; Mike, Jean; sister, Carmel MacDonald, Sydney; grandchildren, Tabitha, Stephen, Jade; great-grandson, Ben. She was predeceased by brother, David; sister, Peggy Gillis.
“Mama Flo” was considered a second mom to her children’s many friends. A strong, dedicated and courageous woman, she started her career as a flight attendant for TWA, and retired as a nurse from the Nova Scotia Hospital in 1995, having received her long-service award. All who knew her couldn’t help but love her. She was compassionate to a fault, willing to help someone in need whenever she could.
Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. Funeral mass will be Saturday at 12 noon, in Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Woodside, Father James Richards officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Lung Association Nova Scotia, or a charity of choice.
The family would like to thank her best friend, Joy Smith, for always being there for her.
Mom, you taught us your strengths, compassion and humility. You’ll always be missed and never forgotten. We love you so much.