Margaret Elizabeth “Peggy” (McLeod) Johnson

Johnson (McLeod), Margaret Elizabeth “Peggy” – Age 94, of Stewiacke and Halifax, passed peacefully January 19, 2017. Peggy was predeceased by her parents, George and Charlotte Lampier; her brother, George; her first husband, Donald James “Dan” McLeod; her second husband, William Johnson; and her son, Rodrick Bruce McLeod. She is survived and will be greatly missed by sons, Donald James McLeod (Sharon), Michael Francis McLeod (Donna, Gloria), Ronald Murdock McLeod (Elizabeth); daughter, Kathy Gulliver (Kevin); and foster daughter Claire Ross (Blair). Peggy also leaves behind 12 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. In keeping with her wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service. Donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia.

Please feel free to leave a message of condolence for the family in the Comments area below.

Helen Janice Gero

Gero, Helen Janice – The family wishes to announce the passing of our sister, Helen Janice Gero, age 60, peacefully on January 19, 2017, in Cedarstone, Truro.

Helen was a daughter of the late Helen (Borden) and John Gero (Truro); loving sister of Larry, Noreen and Kay (all deceased); John (Janice), New Brunswick; James, Ralph, Irvin (Marilyn), Sterling (Gwen), Gregory (Paula), Gertrude Fraser, all of Truro; niece of Shirley Landry, Truro.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 1-2 p.m., followed by a memorial service in Zion United Baptist Church, 454 Prince Street, Truro, Pastor Brian O. Johnston officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Zion United Baptist Church.

Please feel free to leave a message of condolence for the family in the Comments area below.

Agnes Geraldine “Gerry” Horne

Horne, Agnes Geraldine “Gerry” – A mother is she who can take the place of all others, but whose place no one else can take. Agnes Geraldine Horne, age 90, of Enfield, died peacefully at home, in the early hours of the morning of January 16, 2017. She was the wife of the late Edgar Nathan Horne, who died January 22, 1998. Gerry, as she was known, was the daughter of the late John Albert and Irene (Hartnett) Carmichael.

Surviving are her sons, Terrance Edgar (the late Valerie), Christopher Robert (Kathleen); and her daughter, Mary Ellen (Bruce) Smiley, all of Enfield.

Gerry was happiest at home with family and would tell you on a daily basis, “I am so happy here” as she sat on her deck overlooking the rippling waters of the Shubenacadie River. Gerry enjoyed cooking, old movies, dancing the “jitterbug” and listening to music from days gone by. On a lucky day she would share some of her writings with you. She often spoke with great fondness of her younger years at the family farm in Enfield, her time with aunts, uncles, and the joy of time spent at St. Patrick’s glee club in Halifax. In recent years, Gerry, also fondly known as “Gram”, “Great-Grammy” or “GG”, loved to spend time with her five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. The family will host a celebration of life on Saturday, from 1-4 p.m., at 7 Arrowhead Lane, Enfield. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you consider a donation to Dalhousie University Faculty of Medicine, Geriatric Research Department. Special thanks to Dr. Bruce Montgomery, as well as the outstanding support of the Palliative Care team and the Colchester East Hants VON.

In loving memory, we revisit an excerpt from one of her favorite poems by Mary Elizabeth Frye:

“Do not stand at my grave and weep,

I am not there I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow,

I am the diamond glints on snow,

I am the sun on ripened grain,

I am the gentle autumn rain...”

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Pamela Betty (Ventham) Collins

Collins (Ventham), Pamela Betty – Age 88. Pam, the second of four daughters, was born in Gosport, England, to the late Lillian “Lily” (Pardon) and Richard J.P. Ventham. The family immigrated to Canada in 1936 and settled in the Hydrostone area of Halifax. Raised in Halifax, she went on to attend University of King’s College (BA Hon), Dalhousie University (BEd) and Nova Scotia College of Art and Design (BFA). Her early working life saw her enjoy teaching at Chebucto School.

In 1955 she married Louis William Collins. They lived and raised three daughters in Colcote one and two, homes built on Lou’s family property on London and Liverpool Streets in Halifax. For the past seven years Pam enjoyed an active life in her apartment community of the Berkeley – Gladstone Street. Each of her homes has reflected her joy in life, her family, art, history, gardening and her passion to be creative.

Always a teacher at heart, Pam spent a lifetime teaching and mentoring others. Her love of the arts, history, conservation, ballet, drama, weaving, handcrafts, photography and gardening, was reflected in her lifelong involvement in many community, provincial and national organizations and projects. Alongside her husband, she worked tirelessly to help preserve both Haligonian and Nova Scotian landmarks and heritage. She was among the founding members of the Heritage Trust of Nova Scotia.

Her love of children was reflected in her long involvement with the Guiding movement, the many youth she welcomed to her home and garden, and her commitment and devotion to her daughters and granddaughters.

Active until three weeks before her death, we will treasure her perseverance in the face of a lifetime of health challenges, her love for those dear to her, her zeal for being active and creative, and her vibrant and loving spirit. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Pam is survived by her daughters,  The Reverend Margaret Collins (The Reverend Eric Lynk), Hunter River, P.E.I.; Lieutenant-Colonel Heather Collins (RCAF), Winnipeg, Man.; and Diane Collins, Halifax; and by granddaughters, Ana and Beatrix Heuthorst, Winnipeg; sisters, Norma Ventham, Ottawa, Ont.; and Elizabeth Tapley (George), Calgary, Alta.; niece, Shirley Blakley and nephew, Richard Blakley (Heather), Ottawa, Ont.; three great-nieces and one great great-niece. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Louis Collins; oldest sister, Dorothy Blakley.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. A memorial service will be held June 7, with a notice appearing closer to the date. As expressions of sympathy, in lieu of flowers, donations to St. Mark’s Anglican Church, 5522 Russell Street, Halifax, NS B3K 1M8 or the Heritage Trust of Nova Scotia, PO Box 36111, RPO Spring Garden, Halifax, NS B3J 3S9 would be appreciated. Condolences may be sent to 4543 Route 13, RR2, Hunter River, PEI C0A 1N0 or to: brigadebucket@hotmail.com

George Bernard Faulkner

Faulkner, George Bernard – Age 87, of Head Jeddore, passed away January 12, 2017, in Twin Oaks Memorial Hospital, Musquodoboit Harbour, surrounded by his family. Born in Dartmouth, he was a son of Charles David and Gertrude (Maloney) Faulkner.

George’s working life was as a rigger in the shipyards in Halifax and Dartmouth. Most of his childhood was spent growing up on Sable Island. He enjoyed gardening, raising his own fruit and produce, as well as livestock. He loved the outdoors, hunting, and listening to the music every Tuesday at Shaun’s Cafe.

Surviving are his children, Linda Chambers, Kemptville, Ont.; Terry (Reggie Baker), Oyster Pond; David (Sherry), Edmonton, Alta.; Danny (Terry Lynn), Dartmouth; Tony (Kim), Porters Lake; Brian, Oromocto, N.B.; Darlene (Kenny) Griffiths, Head Jeddore; 15 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; brothers, Gerald, Porters Lake; Cliff, Moser River; special friend, Marion. He was predeceased by his wife, Marjorie (Turple); sisters, Mary, Florence; brother, Charles; son-in-law, Buddy Chambers.

Cremation has taken place. A graveside service will be held on Monday at 2 p.m. in St. James Anglican Church Cemetery, next to the Ultramar, 9107 Highway 7, Head Jeddore, Rev. Andrew Mortimer officiating. A reception will be held following the service in St. James Anglican Church hall, Dolby Hill. Memorial donations may be made to The Lung Association Nova Scotia or Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova
Scotia.

Special thanks to the staff of Twin Oaks Hospital for their care and compassion.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

Bruce Raymond Fulton

Fulton, Bruce Raymond – Age 67, of Middle Musquodoboit, passed away peacefully with family by his side on January 11, 2017, in Harbourview Lodge, Sheet Harbour. Born in Middle Musquodoboit, he was a son of the late George and Dorothy (Taylor) Fulton.

Bruce was an independent travel agent and ran Bruce Fulton’s Bed and Breakfast. Early in his career, Bruce was a heavy equipment operator with Municipal Contracting. He enjoyed truck driving when given the opportunity.

Bruce is survived by brother, Robert (Robin), Middle Musquodoboit; niece, Shelley (Steve) Owen, Dayspring, and family, Nicola, Richard, Sarah, Christopher and Thomas; nephew, Michael (Natalie), Middle Musquodoboit, and family, Molly and Ben; sister-in-law, Sheila, Halifax; special friend, Sharon Arsenault, Middle Musquodoboit. He was predeceased by his brothers, Donnie, and Ralph in infancy.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Bruce’s life will be held on Saturday at 2 p.m. in Musquodoboit Valley Bicentennial Theatre, Middle Musquodoboit. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

Special thank you to the doctors and staff of Musquodoboit Valley Memorial Hospital and Harbourview Lodge for their loving care and support.

Please feel free to leave a message of condolence for the family in the Comments area below.

Arthur “Art” Archibald Crowe

Crowe, Arthur “Art” Archibald – Age 84, of Dartmouth. It is with saddened hearts that we announce the passing of our loving father, who left us suddenly on January 6, 2017. Born in Little Bass River, he was a son of the late Homer and Susan (Patton) Crowe.

Art enjoyed times spent fishing with his father, and later pleasure fishing with family and friends. His passion was listening to country music, dancing with the love of his life, Iona, and teasingly nicknaming those dear to him. He also enjoyed spending time with his coffee mates in the morning at Dartmouth Superstore. His professional career with public transit spanned from 1953 to 1979 and included working with Bell Buses, Acadian Lines, R. Dooks DTS and City of Dartmouth. He retired from Dartmouth District School Board in 1995 after 16 years of dedicated service.

Art was predeceased by his wife, Iona. Left to grieve are his children, Michael (Kimberlee), Bridgewater; Artena (Russell Webb), Spry Bay; Boyde, Cole Harbour; grandchildren, Krista, Patrick, Lyndsay, Jacob, Myles; great-grandchildren, Tyler, Hayven, Isaac, Keira; brother, John; sister, Evelyn Graham; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A time of remembrance and memories will be held on Friday, 2-4 p.m., in Atlantic Funeral Home, 771 Main St., Dartmouth. A private burial will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to Salvation Army or Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia.

“We will dance again, ‘Hon’, on Paradise earth”... all my love, Art

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Aloysius Martin “Al” Smith

Smith, Aloysius Martin “Al” – Age 85, of Dartmouth, passed away surrounded by his children on January 5, 2017 in Dartmouth General Hospital. A son of the late Elizabeth (Walsh) and Celestine Smith of St. John's, N.L., Al will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Al enjoyed tending to his dahlias every year, being with his family and watching over his dog, Hazel. Al was proud to work for the Department of National Defense where he retired from after 34 years of service as a Marine Oiler.

Al is survived by his sister, Patricia (Cliff) Friesen; brother, Jackie Smith; his children, David (Marilyn), Dartmouth; Cathy (Carl), Dartmouth; James (Susan), Dartmouth; Barry-Diana (Cindy), Dartmouth; Robert (Monique), Dartmouth; Thresa (Tim) Dizes, Alberta; grandchildren, Ryan (Sherry) Smith, Christina (Ricky) Jackson, Chad Stoddard, Michelle, Natalie and Eric Sampson, Crystal Smith (Sebastion), Stephen Smith (Leanne), Alyssa Smith, Matthew and Mitchell Smith, Codie Dizes (Tyler), Alexzandra Dizes; great-grandchildren, Mason Smith, Rylie Allen, Zachery and Zoey Jackson, Cameron Côté, Landon Smith and Faith Orbeck. He was predeceased by his wife of 60 years, Rosina; daughters, Barbara Ann and Elizabeth; brothers, Celestine and Francis "Frank".

The family wishes to express their thanks to the 4th floor West nurses and the Palliative Care Unit in Dartmouth General Hospital for their tremendous empathy and compassion.

A service will be held Saturday at 1:30 p.m. in St. Thomas More Church, with a Celebration of Life to be held following the service in the church hall. A private family interment to follow. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Canadian National Institute for the Blind and/or The Lung Association Nova Scotia.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

Please feel free to leave a message of condolence for the family in the Comments area below.

Leroy Isaac Henley

Henley, Leroy Isaac – Age 79, of Hilden, and formerly of Upper Musquodoboit, passed away January 3, 2017, in Musquodoboit Valley Memorial Hospital, Middle Musquodoboit. Born in Upper Musquodoboit, he was a son of the late Isaac and Addie (Hamilton) Henley.

Most of Leroy’s working life was spent as a truck driver and machine operator. He enjoyed camping, fishing and helping others whenever he could. He was a loving and devoted husband and friend to many.

He will always be missed by his wife, Bernice (Dahr); sister, Luella Farnell; brothers, Brody (Loretta), Charlie (Joan); sisters-in-law, Marg, Barb, Mary, Susanna, Roseley; brother-in-law, Frank Gale; nephew, Kenny (Janet) Henley; many other nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by brothers, Wilfred, Stewart, Russell, Marshall, Howard, Harrison, Gordon in infancy; sister, Amy; brother-in-law, George Farnell; sister-in-law, Ruth.

Visitation will be Thursday, 7-9 p.m., and funeral service Friday at 2 p.m., both in St. James United Church, Upper Musquodoboit, Rev. Michael Henderson officiating. Burial will be in Hillcrest Cemetery. Family flowers only. Memorial donations may be made to Canadian Diabetes Association, Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia or Canadian Cancer Society.

Many thanks to the staff of Musquodoboit Valley Hospital for their caring and kindness.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

Please feel free to leave a message of condolence for the family in the Comments area below.

Cyrus Kenneth “Kennie” Graham

Graham, Cyrus Kenneth “Kennie” – Age 83, Upper Stewiacke, passed away on January 3, 2017, at home. Born in Burnside, he was a son of the late William and Helen (Dean) Graham.

Surviving are his wife of 59 years, Beulah (Hamilton); sons, Kevin and Perry; daughter-in-law, Michelle; seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; brothers, Gary and his wife, Diane; Logan and his wife, Rhonda; numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his youngest son, Kirk; brothers, Stewart, Aubrey, Jack and Floyd.

At Kennie’s request, there will be no visitation or funeral service.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

Please feel free to leave a message of condolence for the family in the Comments area below.

Douglas Foster Hines

Hines, Douglas Foster – Age 57, Elmsdale, passed away suddenly on January 2, 2017. Born in Dutch Settlement, he was a son of Jeannie (Ruggles) Hines, and the late Foster Hines.

Doug was the successful owner of Halifax Glass and Mirror. When not working, he enjoyed gardening, camping, putting up Christmas lights, but his passion was spending time with his grandchildren.

He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and will always be missed by his wife, Mary Lynn; sons, Matthew (Catie), Tyler, Coady; grandsons, Samuel and Joshua; brothers, Wally (Doreen), Glen (Sarah), Darren (Colette); stepfather, Ron Lowe; stepsisters, Nadine, Nancy, Susan; numerous extended family members and friends.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Doug’s life will be on Sunday, 2-4 p.m., in Milford Recreation Center, 2288 Highway No. 2, Milford. Memorial donations to IWK Health Centre Foundation would be appreciated.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

Please feel free to leave a message of condolence for the family in the Comments area below.

Earle Grant Wilson

Wilson, Earle Grant – Age 83, of Lantz. It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to Earle, a loving father, brother, grampy and friend, who lost his battle with cancer on December 18, 2016.

A long-time resident of Lantz, and cottage dweller at West Loon Lake, Earle was a kind soul who will be missed by all who knew him.

He leaves behind his children, Darrell (Vallee), Becky, Tena Marie, Robert, Murray, Derek, James (Debbie); grandchildren, Tanya, Tricia (Henry), Sarah Jane, Grant (Kenzie), Cuyler (Melissa), Amber (Gordie), Kendall, Daniel; great-grandchildren, Zac, Karley, Hunter, Linkin, Brett; siblings, Jackie (Bonnie), Geraldine (Graham); many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, John and Agnes (Fauchea) Wilson; wife, Tena (Isenor); son, Tim; daughter, Tracy in infancy; son-in-law, Murray Grant; siblings, Linda, Barbara, Donnie, Gordie; brothers-in-law, Pat Claxton, Ralph Burgess.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.  The family invites you to a celebration of life at Elmsdale Legion on Thursday from 1-4 p.m. Interment will be at a later date in Christ Church Cemetery, Lantz. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of choice.

Please feel free to leave a message of condolence for the family in the Comments area below.

Shirley (Erskine) Risser

Risser (Erskine), Shirley – Age 80, of Upper Musquodoboit, passed peacefully in her sleep on December 15, 2016 in Ocean View Continuing Care. Born in Upper Musquodoboit, she was the only daughter of the late Lester and Hazel (Holman) Erskine.

Shirley was the last surviving member of her immediate family and will be sadly missed by her children, Kurt (Phyllis), Prince George, B.C.; Blair (Lila), Calgary; Heather (Larry) Miller, Belnan; Rob (Judy), Chris (Tara), both of Chaswood; grandchildren, Steven, Kevin, Lisamarie, Sam, Sarah, Emily, Jordan, Jesse, Lacey, Shelby, Jared, Matthew; great-grandchildren, Abbey and Leigh; sisters-in-law, Rita Erskine, Barb Oxner, Joan Merrem; brothers-in-law, Reginald (Ethel) Risser, Harold Wamboldt; many nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Robert “Bob”; brothers, John, Donald, Kevin; brothers-in law, Mark (Beatrice) Risser, Charlie Merrem; sister-in-law, Marion Wamboldt; nephews, Roddy Erskine, Robert Erskine. She is reunited with her faithful four-legged companion, Heidi.

Those who knew Shirley knew that family meant everything to her. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend. You never left her house hungry and even while in Ocean View she was still trying to feed everyone. No matter who you were, you were always welcome in her home. She was well known for her fabulous baking, especially her fudge, which people would come back every year to buy at the 50-mile yard sale. She welcomed borders from all over the world who were coming to work in the area, and were treated like kings. Those who visited her in her last few years in Ocean View knew that if you brought her sweet potato fries, you had a friend for life. She was Louis Good Used Clothing Store’s best customer. She was a lifetime member of St. James United Church.

Visitation will be 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, and funeral service will be 2 p.m. on Monday, both in St. James United Church, Upper Musquodoboit, Rev. Michael Henderson officiating. Burial will be in Hillcrest Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

Please feel free to leave a message of condolence for the family in the Comments area below.

Evelyn Earleen (Sims) Lutwick

Lutwick (Sims), Evelyn Earleen – Of Elmsvale. It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our Mom, Evelyn Earleen (Sims) Lutwick. Mom passed away peacefully on December 13, 2016 in Musquodoboit Valley Memorial Hospital, Middle Musquodoboit, after a courageous battle with dementia for the past six years. Mom was predeceased by her husband, Rolland Osborne Lutwick, infant son, Robert, and her parents, Robert and Lena Sims.

Mom spent the last five months of her life at Braeside Home for Special Care, where she continued her nursing career in helping all staff with their various duties. When visiting her, we would often find her maneuvering her wheelchair alongside or behind them, offering advice or just wanting to hold their hand. Thank you to all of Braeside staff and residents for being so patient and loving towards Mom, and also to the staff of MVMH who were so compassionate and caring when she was hospitalized.

Born in 1930 in Windsor Mills, Que., Mom attended a private school at Stanstead, and received her RN diploma from Montreal General Hospital. She married Rolland on September 13, 1952 and spent the next 55 years of their married life in various locations including Menihek, Moncton and finally Middle Musquodoboit. Mom’s professional career not only included nursing, but she also took on the role as health administrator at MVMH. During her administration days she oversaw the construction of the new hospital which provides a great service to this small community to this day. Upon retirement, Mom continued to be active in many volunteer capacities (hospital auxiliary, Enterprisers and pianist for Riverside United Church). She loved to read books and regularly attended the Musquodoboit Valley Book Club and Seekers, where she enjoyed the discussions and socialization that came with these groups of people. Mom was never an avid shopper but she did enjoy her trips into Truro with her friend, Goldie Dickie. Mom and Goldie would often speak about these times and sharing a meal at the old Zellers restaurant.

Surviving are her children, Diana (Leonard) Day, Elmsvale; Karyn (Jim) Archibald, Berwyn, Alta.; Gary (Diane Redmond), Ottawa; Cathy (Charlie) Milner, Middle Musquodoboit; grandchildren, Christy (Greg), Lindsay (Waleed), Kim (Claude), Cody (Shannon), Curtis, Bradley (Amanda); great-grandchildren, Aiden Archibald, Madison, Thomas and Lana Lutwick.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Mom’s Life will take place from 2-4 p.m. on Tuesday, downstairs in Middleton United Church, Middle Musquodoboit. Interment will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mom’s memory may be made to Musquodoboit Valley Health Foundation – Hospital or Braeside Home for Special Care.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

Please feel free to leave a message of condolence for the family in the Comments area below.

Clara (Jackson) Wright

Wright (Jackson), Clara – Of Stewiacke. Clara (Jackson) Wright died peacefully on December 12, 2016, at home, surrounded by family. Born in 1921 in Blackburn, Lancashire, England, she came to Canada at age three with her mother, Beatrice Bamford, to reunite with her father, William “Bill” Jackson.

In 1940, she married Gordon F. Wright of Stewiacke East. They were married for 57 years until his passing on March 14, 1997. Clara worked at the peg factory in Stewiacke during the Second World War, then later at John Ross Slipper Factory in Truro. She was president of the Ladies Auxiliary, and life member of Branch No. 70 Stewiacke Legion. After her family, her main love was Holy Trinity Anglican Church where she was a member of the ACW and sang in the choir. She was also president of the Veterans Affairs Survivors Assistance, Truro.

Surviving are her sons, Jerry (Ria), Steven (Pat), David (Dawn), Chris (Nadine); daughters, Gloria Burtt (Bill), Nancylee, Laurel LaCroix (Jack), Debbie Frizzell (John); son-in-law, Ron Gill; brothers, Thomas, Bowmanville, Ont.; Billy, Stewiacke; 26 grandchildren; 55 great-grandchildren, five great great-grandchildren. Besides her husband, she was predeceased by daughter, Sharon Gill; infant children, Dianne, Lawrence; grandchildren, Gordon Wright, Dianna Frizzell; three great great-grandchildren; brothers, Raymond, John, Gordon, David; sisters, Mavis, Nellie.

Visitation will be 7-9 p.m. on Thursday, and funeral will be at 3 p.m. on Friday, both in St. James Anglican Church, Shubenacadie, Rev. Carl Fraser officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. James Anglican Church or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

Please feel free to leave a message of condolence for the family in the Comments area below.

Judy Elizabeth (Prest) Monk

Monk (Prest), Judy Elizabeth – Age 58, Upper Musquodoboit, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2016, in Colchester East Hants Health Centre, Truro, surrounded by family. Born in Sheet Harbour, and raised in Mooseland, she was a daughter of Sterling and Valerie (Kennedy) Prest.

Judy attended Acadia University and then Nova Scotia Teachers College, graduating in 1981. She spent her career teaching in the Musquodoboit Valley, retiring from Upper Musquodoboit in 2014. She was a member of St. James United Church where she played the organ and piano for a number of years.

She was a dedicated mother and grandmother, and will always be missed by her loving husband, Kevin; children, Jeanette, Adam (Andrea), Boyd, Jody, Jessy, Brian, Thomas, Leanne; grandchildren, Christian, Emma, Hayden, Jaxson, Emily, Lucas; brothers, Wade (Julie), Barry (Delfina); many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Visitation will be Tuesday, 7-9 p.m., and funeral service will be Wednesday at 11 a.m., both in St. James United Church, Upper Musquodoboit, Rev. Michael Henderson officiating. Burial will be in St. Thomas Anglican Cemetery, Mooseland. Family flowers only. Memorial donations may be made to St. James United Church or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

Please feel free to leave a message of condolence for the family in the Comments area below.

Mae Jean Ayer

Ayer, Mae Jean – Onslow Mountain. The passing occurred on December 8, 2016, of Mae Jean Ayer, Onslow Mountain. Born in 1940, in Alberton, PEI, she was the youngest daughter of the late George and Eleanor (Dyment) Marchbank.

Mae will be dearly missed by her partner and childhood sweetheart, Odin Otterson, Onslow Mountain; granddaughter, Jennifer Chidiac (Ray Bickford); great-granddaughter, Eden Bickford; stepsons, Kevin (Tammy) and David Otterson; step-granddaughters, Kayla, Kaitlyn and Kourtney Otterson; sisters, Isabelle MacLean, Mary Nieforth; brothers, Jack (Colleayn), Alan (Verna); many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, she was predeceased by son, Douglas; siblings, Jim, Margaret, Anne and Arnett.

There will be no visitation or funeral at this time. A family service will be held at a later date.

Special thanks to the doctors and nurses on the palliative care unit in Colchester East Hants Health Centre.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

Please feel free to leave a message of condolence for the family in the Comments area below.

Donald Evan Ashley

Ashley, Donald Evan – Age 84, lifelong resident of Dutch Settlement, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, December 6, 2016. He was a son of the late Elmer and Viola (Isenor) Ashley.

Surviving are his wife of 56 years, Marjorie (MacPhee); son Robert “Bobby” (Dawn), as well as grandsons, Cameron and Connor who were his pride and joy. He is also survived by brother, Grant; sisters, Earlene (Garfield) Isenor, Sandra (Ira) Gloade; sisters-in-law, Flora Peck, Doris Ashley; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by brothers, Warren and Reg; sisters, Lena Ashley and Pansy Isenor (Percy).

At one time, Don was employed by Laurie Isenor & Sons, Elmsdale. He retired after 33 years of service as a school bus driver for Halifax County (Musquodoboit Rural High School). Don enjoyed fishing, four-wheeling, and spent many hours “tinkering”. He and Marjorie enjoyed many summers camping.

Cremation has taken place. A committal service for family and friends will be held on Friday at 2 p.m. in Hardwood Lands Cemetery, with Rev. Beth Mattinson officiating. A reception will follow in Hardwood Lands Presbyterian Church, 8178 Hwy. 14, Hardwood Lands. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia or Hardwood Lands Cemetery, c/o 7041 Hwy. 14, Nine Mile River, NS B2S 2V5.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

Please feel free to leave a message of condolence for the family in the Comments area below.

Anne Marie O’Keefe

O’Keefe, Anne Marie – It is with sadness that we announce the death of a beloved aunt, Anne Marie O’Keefe, age 91, of Shubenacadie and formerly of Grand Falls-Windsor, N.L., on December 3, 2016. She was a daughter of the late Charles and Mary (Griffin) O’Keefe.

Anne worked as parish secretary for Immaculate Conception Church and, later, for the Roman Catholic School Board of Grand Falls-Windsor before retiring to live with her niece, Caroline (DeLong) and Laurence Hamilton in Shubenacadie. She was an active member of St. Bridget’s Roman Catholic Church and served as parish sacristan. She also volunteered at Shubenacadie Elementary School as well as at the local food bank. In 2008, ill health forced Anne to move to Townsview Estates in Truro and, later, to Cedarstone Enhanced Care where she lived happily.

She was predeceased by siblings, Gertrude DeLong, Mary Frances O’Keefe, Bernard O’Keefe, Marie Shallow, Rose Deighan, Cyril O’Keefe, and Monica McNeill. She is survived by many nieces and nephews who fondly remember her hearty laugh and her generous spirit.

Anne’s life will be celebrated at a funeral mass in St. Bridget’s Catholic Church on Saturday at 11 a.m. with Rev. Jose Thomas, Celebrant, and Deacon Wilfred Boudreau officiating. Reception to follow in Campbell Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Bridget’s Catholic Church, 112 Mill Village Rd., Shubenacadie, NS B0N 2H0.

Heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff of Cedarstone who took such good care of Anne, and to faithful friends and frequent visitors, Sylvia McDougall, Jenny Malbeuf and Joan Tapuska.

Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.

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Deanna Isabel (Isenor) Ingraham

Ingraham (Isenor), Deanna Isabel – Age 74, of Lantz, passed away suddenly at home November 30, 2016. Born in Lantz Siding, she was a daughter of the late Amy (Shackleton) and Russell Isenor (Lantz). She was a dear sister of Marie Ashley, Lantz.

Deanna was well known for her work at the Lantz Arena. She was an avid ball player in her younger years and coached the Lantz Laserettes. Family was everything to Deanna. She made sure to keep in touch, always wanting to know how everyone was doing. Her genuine love and caring will be sadly missed by all.

She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Robert; children, Shelley (Murray Rideout), Neil’s Harbour; Brenda (Steven Joyce), Lantz; Robert “Bobby” (Robin Fahie), Lantz; daughter-in-law, Janet Young, Enfield; grandchildren, Chris Ashley (Korey), Halifax; Jeffrey “Jake” Ashley (Sara), Summerside, P.E.I.; Amanda “Mandy” Joyce, Lantz; Jenna Joyce (Cory Jean), Lantz; step grandchildren, Janelle Gehue, Enfield; Hilary Gehue, Nine Mile River; Sawyer Beaton, Lantz; two great-grandchildren; three step great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit. There will be no visitation or service by request. The family will receive visitors in Robert’s home, 12 Lloyd Dr., Lantz, on Sunday, December 4, from 2-4 p.m.