Search Results

Bible Hill, NS July 31, 2024 Elaine Christine MacQuarrie – 90, Bible Hill, passed away peacefully on Wednesday morning, July 31, 2024, at Aberdeen Hospital, New Glasgow. Born in West River Station, she was a daughter of the late Wilson and Elizabeth (Tupper) Murray. She was a school teacher in Pictou County for three years and after moving to Truro, she worked at Moffatt Brothers in Truro for several years. She was a member of St. David’s United Church, Bible Hill, where she was active in the UCW and on the Board of Stewards. She was a member of Diamond Rebekah Lodge No. 15, Truro, was a Past Noble Grand and held other offices. She received the Decoration of Chivalry on July 14, 1998 and also served on the Home Board of the Odd Fellows and Rebekah’s Home in Pictou for a number of years. She was a volunteer with Colchester Food Bank for several years and received the Volunteer Award of the Year from the Village of Bible Hill and also the Provincial Volunteer Award in 2012. Elaine is survived by her children,  Elizabeth (Laurie) MacLean, Alberta; Neil (Verna) MacQuarrie, Lorne, Pictou County; Earl (Kim) MacQuarrie, Bible Hill; grandchildren, Melissa (Mike) Hittinger (Quinn, Kale), Stephanie (Matt) Hunter (Braydon, Sophie, Lyla), Neil MacQuarrie, Robert (Karen) MacQuarrie (Lillien, Abbygail, Thomas), Jamie (Jessica) MacQuarrie (Ellie-Rae, Mason); several nieces, nephews and cousins. Along with her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Neil Edgar MacQuarrie; twin sister, Eileen; sister, Ann (Guy) Hayter. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall – Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro, where Diamond Rebekah Lodge will conduct a tribute service at 3:45 p.m., Tuesday, August 6, 2024. Following this service, Elaine’s family will receive friends from 4-6 p.m., Tuesday, August 6, 2024, and funeral service 1 p.m., Wednesday, August 7, 2024, Reverend April Hart officiating. Interment in St. Andrew’s Cemetery, Gairloch, Pictou County. Family flowers only. If so desired, donations in Elaine’s memory to Heart and Stroke Foundation or Colchester SPCA are welcomed.

Sydney River, NS June 10, 1939 – July 26, 2024 Nerine Carmichael, cherished wife of Ken Carmichael for 61 years; beloved mother of Kerri (Matt), Kendra (Patrick), and Kirsti (Andrew); loving grandmother to Kenneth (Brie) and Sam; and precious great-grandmother to Arlo, passed away quietly at home on Friday, July 26, 2024, leaving a void her family cannot fill. She loved them so much; they were her world, and she was theirs. Nerine was born in Charlottetown, PE to Katherine (Carson) and Ralph MacLean. She was the oldest of seven siblings: Donna, Margie, Ivan, Cathy, Connie, and Robert. Nerine was predeceased by her mother, father, sister Cathy, and countless feline companions. Nerine devoted her life to the service of others. She spent many years in the nursing profession, training at Children’s Hospital in Halifax and working at both City and St. Rita’s Hospital in Sydney, making special friends along the way. As she was an avid animal lover, when she retired from human care, Nerine spent time working at Kennedy Animal hospital for several years. Many creatures were as devoted to her as she was to them. We like to think the cats were all waiting for her at the heavenly gates, meowing loudly for all to hear, urging her to feed them their dinner. She is especially missed by her feline companion, Bizzy. Nerine was well loved in the community and neighborhood. She enjoyed spending time at Jost House Museum in the summer months, welcoming cruise ship passengers and having tea with dear friends, Eileen and Jay. She will be missed by special family friend Donna Lewin, who would call often to check in and chat. She spent most of her time with her best friend and dear husband out and about on adventures, running errands, and setting up for craft shows. For many years, they never sat still. In most recent years, they were rarely apart, laughing over a tv show or listening to the radio together. The loss is felt so deeply. Cremation has taken place, there is no visitation, and Celebration of Life will take place in St. Albans Church, Whitney Pier at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, August 6, 2024. In lieu of flowers, spend time with your loved ones, tell them you love them, snuggle your pets, and take time to watch the hummingbirds. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.

New Ross, NS July 23, 2024 Tony Steven Dorey - 55, of New Ross, NS passed away suddenly on Tuesday, July 23rd, in the QEII, Halifax. Born in Kentville, he was the son of the late Laurie Dorey Sr. and Betty Reese. Tony's skill and passion for building were unparalleled. Over the years, he constructed garages, barns, shops and a dock on the New Ross reserve; leaving structures that will stand as lasting tributes to his craftsmanship and dedication. Throughout his life Tony was proud to practice his treaty rights, honoring his heritage and passing on the importance to his children. Tony is survived by his children, Adrian (Samm), Anthony and Kateri who will cherish the memories of his laughter, stories and the lessons he imparted. He is also remembered by his loving partner, Karen; her daughter, Taylor and Taylor's son, Dawson, who brought joy and companionship into his life; and his siblings, Ronda, Brian, Timothy, John, Laurie and Jeffery, will also hold his memories dear. Though he is no longer with us, the impact of his life's work and enduring spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. A celebration of Tony's life will be held througout the day on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at #12 New Ross Reserve Road, New Ross. Arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville. May Tony rest in peace knowing he built, not just structures but a legacy of hard work, love and resilience.

New Glasgow, NS July 21, 2024 It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our mom, June McGaghey, on Sunday July 21st at Glen Haven Manor in New Glasgow, NS, just shy of her 93rd birthday. Our mother passed away peacefully with her daughters by her side. She was the daughter of the late George and Leona Pierce of Moncton, NB and was predeceased by the love of her life of 60 years husband, Don McGaghey. Her working career began with Blue Cross in Moncton and during that time she met our dad. They were soon married and started a family and from there the adventure began when dad was transferred overseas with the RCAF. It was hard on mom being so far away from family but she had no regrets as she and dad met the most amazing people that mom kept in touch with over the years. Upon returning to Canada, mom worked at Eatons for a few years before landing her dream job in the office at the Riverview Animal Hospital. When dad retired he and mom worked with Invisible Fence for 15 years training dogs and their owners. So, as you can see the common theme that brought mom great joy was being around animals. I guess that's why my sister and I love animals so much. Mom and dad celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in 2011. Sadly, dad passed away suddenly not long after which left a huge void in mom's life. The inner strength my mom possessed to move forward with her life was inspiring. She was her daughters’ strength during that difficult time. She never lost her sense of humour and so enjoyed her long-time friends (the list is too long but you know who you are) whether it was her regular bridge games, social events, concerts, family gatherings, or just enjoying quality time with her daughters. Oh, and don't let me forget the meals!! Mom was an amazing cook and she loved cooking for people especially my dad. Mom was the smartest person we knew. She was always our go to person with questions or just that mom you could talk to about anything. Recently, a daughter at her mother's funeral spoke about how much her mother taught her over the years but the one thing she didn't teach her was how to live without her. Hopefully time will heal the pain of losing mom and we'll cherish all of the great memories. She was the best mom ever!! Mom was predeceased by her husband of 60 years, Don McGaghey. She will forever be in the hearts of her daughters, Karen McGaghey (Mary Lou Turner) of Charlottetown, PEI, and Kathy Jackson (Brendan) of New Glasgow, NS; her cherished grandchildren, Tracey Lavigne (Paula), Christopher Lavigne (Annisa), Jason Lavigne (Shannon) and Ryan Redden; great-grandchildren, Eva, Caleb, Talia, Elsie Lavigne and Cailin and Carter Redden. A Celebration of Life will take place at 11am Friday, August 2, 2024, at Cobbs Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 330 Whitepine Road, Riverview, NB (Ph: 506-869-2007), with Steve Berube officiating. In June's memory, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Society or a donor's choice.

Pictou, NS June 24, 1937 - July 23, 2024 Born June 24th, 1937 in Little Passage, NL, passed peacefully in the Palliative Care Unit at the Aberdeen Hospital New Glasgow, NS Dad is survived by his children:  Cathy (Peter),  David (Debbie), Jackie, Rita (Philip). Grandchildren:  Shannon, Lindsay (Jeff) Powers, Allison (Mark) Marryatt, Thomas (Alannah), Lauren (Colin), Tyler and Jorja.  Great Grandson Rory. Brother Victor Matchem (Shirley) of  Milltown, Sister Shirley (Harvey) Rose of Fortune, Brother In Law Tom Young of Fortune,  Sisters in Law Francis Matchem, Harbour Breton, Patti Matchem of Orleans ON. Sisters In Law  Doris Day (Jim) of Garnish, Eileen Matthews (Harold) of Burin, Verna Cluett of Halifax, Linda Bulger of St. John’s, Rose Cluett of Texas. Dad was predeceased by his wife of 57 Years, Effie Catherine (Cluett), his Parents Tom & Violet Matchem, his brothers Herb, Edgar, Jim, Clarence, Sisters Charlotte Young and Ruth Priddle.  Sisters in Law Tilly Matchem, Hazel Hardding (Eric) Marion (Willis) Parsons, Rita Hardiman, Gwen Cluett. Brothers in Law Walter and Morley Cluett. Dad grew up in Little Passage NL. At a very young age he went to work off of the Grand Banks fishing.  Dad loved anything and everything to do with the water. Dad left NL and the water and went to work in the Halifax Shipyard as a carpenter, He met Mom and eventually they moved to Pictou, where he worked in the Pictou Shipyards & to raise their family. Dad had his own Carpentry Business where he built every deck on Maple Street.  He was an accomplished Cabinet Maker and his work is still in many local homes today. Mom & Dad returned to Halifax and became Resident Managers for Killam Properties @ 50 Barkton Lane for over 30 years. Dad’s best days were spent watching the Toronto Blue Jays, playing crib, drinking small double double’s from McDonald’s, playing TV Bingo, and time by the water. Special thank you to Donald and Darlene Fraser for all of the special treats and the countless visits.  His wonderful, compassionate care givers at the Shiretown Nursing Home and the amazing staff at the Aberdeen Hospital and the Palliative Care Unit. Cremation has taken place under the direction of the Dartmouth Funeral Home. A Private Family graveside service will be held on Saturday at 2 pm. “May the Wind always be on your Forward Sails”

Historical Obituary Halifax, NS November 26, 1831 - January 19, 1915 Anna Leonowens, an educator, author, and social activist whose extraordinary life inspired the story "The King and I," passed away on January 19, 1915. Born on November 26, 1831, in Ahmednagar, India, Anna Harriet Emma Edwards lived a life marked by adventure, resilience, and profound impact on multiple continents. Anna Leonowens was born to an Anglo-Indian father and a British mother, and her early life was spent in British India. She married Thomas Leon Owens in 1849 and had two children. After her husband's death, she found herself widowed and in need of income. Seeking new opportunities, Anna moved to Singapore and then to Siam (modern-day Thailand) in 1862, where she took on the role of governess to the children of King Mongkut. Her tenure at the Siamese court was transformative. Anna not only taught the royal children but also became a trusted advisor to the king. Her experiences and observations were later detailed in her memoirs, "The English Governess at the Siamese Court" (1870) and "Romance of the Harem" (1873). These works provided the basis for the novel "Anna and the King of Siam" by Margaret Landon, which subsequently inspired the Broadway musical and film "The King and I." In 1867, after leaving Siam, Anna Leonowens moved to North America. She initially lived in the United States before settling in Halifax, Nova Scotia, in 1878. In Halifax, Anna continued her influential work. She was a prolific writer, contributing articles and essays to various publications. She also became an advocate for women's rights and education, engaging in public speaking and activism. Anna's commitment to education and social justice was evident in her role as a co-founder of the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design (NSCAD) in 1887. She served as a lecturer at the college and was instrumental in its development into a significant educational institution. Anna Leonowens' impact extended beyond her literary and educational contributions. She was a vocal supporter of the suffrage movement and worked tirelessly to improve the status of women in society. Her legacy is celebrated not only through her literary works and educational endeavors but also through her lasting influence on cultural and social norms. Anna Leonowens passed away on January 19, 1915, in Montreal, Quebec, but her influence continues to be felt in Nova Scotia and beyond. Her life story remains an enduring testament to the power of education and cultural exchange. She is remembered as a pioneering educator and a champion of social change, whose life's work bridged continents and cultures. To learn more about Anna Leonowens and her contributions, you can visit the following resources: Nova Scotia Archives NSCAD University The Canadian Encyclopedia Wikipedia - Anna Leonowens

Sydney, NS March 9, 1956 – July 17, 2024 (Elizabeth) Clare MacLean, Mom or Nanny (her favourite name) passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 17th surrounded by her family and friends. Clare’s long hard battle with cancer was softened by the relentless care of her loving husband Paul, her children, her siblings and all her extended family and friends. She spent her last few years surrounded by the people she loved most and as much of that time as possible with her grandchildren. Mom’s favourite thing to do was getting together with family and friends. This was made easy because there were so very, very many of them. Whether it was her Boxing Day potluck with the massive Butler family, vacation time in the Valley or family gatherings with the somehow equally huge MacLean family, travelling to Ingonish, playing Bingo or Scrabble at the dinner table into the late-night hours with best friend, Linda; Mom was always happiest when she was with people she loved. There was nothing in the world mom loved more than her kids…until she had grandkids. Even though the kids might have debated about who was the favourite, they quickly found out they were all a distant 2nd when Lucy came around, then Henry, then Violet. By the time Riley, Leo and Connor (the triplets) arrived her kids Stephen, Shaun and Paula gladly sat back tied for 7th place as Nanny gave the grandkids what her kids were always given growing up and that was all her time, attention and love. In her final days she still asked for her grandchildren. Even when there was no energy left there was love in her heart and she wanted them to feel it…and they did. She loved her family and friends fiercely and cared for them selflessly. Her selflessness taught us all to give whatever we could give to those in need; and if you couldn’t give them anything, maybe you could help them file their income tax. She was an avid volunteer and donor to groups and foundations across Cape Breton. She was a Beaver Leader, a Youth Group Leader, Canadian Cancer Society organizer, a volunteer with the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Canada Revenue Agency, Hospice Cape Breton and a giver to so many other community events and causes. Born on March 9, 1956, Clare was the daughter of the late Jean (MacPhee) and William (Bill) Butler. Clare is survived by her loving husband, Paul MacLean, and their children, Stephen (Corrine), Shaun (Alison) and Paula (Andrew), and her 10 siblings: Frances (Robert), Coleen (Jack), Bill (Alexis), Theresa (Steven), Margie (Paul), Jeannie (Robert), John (Susan), Shaun (Laura), Kathleen (Bruce) and Carole (Gilles). Nanny is survived by her adored and precious grandchildren: Lucy, Henry, Violet, Riley, Leo and Connor and many nieces and nephews. Clare is also survived by her four sisters-in-law, Judy (Hector), Karen, Marie and Mary (Richard) and brother-in-law, John. Besides her parents, Clare is predeceased by her father and mother-in-law, Allister and Lorraine (Nugent) MacLean; brother William Jr. in infancy; sister Eileen in childhood; brother-in-law, Allister; sister-in-law, Susan; niece Tara; and nephew Chad. The family extends a warm thank you to all the medical staff and volunteers on 3B and An Cala units for the care, comfort and support provided to Clare, family and friends. Visitation will be held at TW Curry Parkview Chapel, 755 George St. Sydney, on Sunday July 21, 2024 from 7 - 9 pm. A funeral mass will be held at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Sydney River on Monday July 22, 2024 at 11:00 am with Father Conrad Edwards officiating. A private inurnment for family will occur later. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice Cape Breton or the Canadian Cancer Society.

Berwick, NS July 17, 2024 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James Wellesley "Jim" Sherrard, 78, of Berwick, on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at home.   Born in Kentville, he was one of three children of the late Wilbur and Clara (Taylor) Sherrard. Jim later became part of a larger blended family of 8 after his mother’s death when his father remarried Evelena Wood.  Jim met the love of his life, Elsie (Mailman) Parrish at a Legion dance. He loved dancing and from the first dance the two shared, they were inseparable. After more than 30 years together, Elsie sadly passed away in November of 2023. In their time together, they were very community minded. Jim was an honorary auxiliary member of the Waterville Fire Department where he and Elsie devoted a lot of their time. They raised thousands of dollars for many charities in the community with Children’s Wish Foundation (Make-A-Wish Canada) being very close to their heart. One of the ways he would raise money for charities was to hold weekly yard sales throughout the summer.  Jim loved going for drives to the shore where he would collect rocks with his granddaughter, Alicia. He enjoyed bird watching and camping, especially in provincial parks like Rissers and Graves Island. One of his favorites spots to go was anywhere near the ocean. Especially Cottage Cove and Turners Brook, where he and Elsie parked their camper.  He was a "jack of all trades" and there was nothing he couldn’t do. Whether he was building cabinets and renovating houses, or making something, anything out of sheet metal. Jim built a tin man statue as his mascot for his business Jim’s sheet metal in his earlier years. He was later known as the tin man to many. In his earlier years, he had a great appreciation for antique vehicles and even building two antique cars, including a ‘46 Ford, from the ground up.   His passion for woodworking resulted in many things. You could often find him in his workshop building bird houses and picnic tables.    Jim was a well-known man who was appreciated and loved and was eager to help in any situation. He will be deeply missed by all. He is survived by his children, Robin Sherrard, Spruce Grove, AB, Joe (Michelle) Parrish, Woodville, Pam (Jason) McDow, Lakeville; Tammie (Corey) Smith, Berwick; sister, Beryl Sherrard-Naugler (Wayne Naugler), Camperdown; brothers, Rick (Kathy) Sherrard, Kentville, Jamie Nicholson (Dawn), Kingston, Mark (Sudarat) Sherrard, Halifax and Franklin (Phoebe) Sherrard, Kitchner; grandchildren, Jamie, Owen, Cassandra (James) Milsom, Kyle Parrish, Alicia (Kaelen) Parrish, Michaela McDow, Brooklyn McDow, Tristan-Danielle "Tris" Carty (William Young), Richard England, great-grandchildren, Daxson, Phoenix, Scarlett, Briar; and many nieces and nephews.   Besides his parents, and his partner, Elsie, Jim was predeceased by daughter, Rosalyn; sister, Janice Sherrard and brother, John Sherrard.   Cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation or funeral service as Jim requested. Special thank you to the Palliative Continuing Care Team, VON and Red Cross. As well as his special friends and family who made his stay at home possible. It meant a great deal to Jim to stay home, and they made it happen.   Donations in memory may be made to the Waterville Fire Department or the Make-A-Wish Foundation or a charity of your choice.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville.

Kentville, NS February 4, 1947 - July 21, 2024 Today, we say goodbye to beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather (Bubby), Brother, Uncle and Friend, John Eisses. And today, John has said goodbye to all who loved him and to his beloved apple orchard. Today, he says hello face to face to Jesus his Lord and Saviour.   John is survived by his wife of 54 years, Trudy née Hogeterp; children, Peter Eisses (Lisa), Karen Sanford (Tommy), David Eisses (Shanna), Mary-Ellen Swanson (Ryan), Ruth Roberts (Matthew); and grandchildren, Joshua, Noah (Christy), Savana-Raine, Isaiah, Alexander, Leah, Emily, Jane, Lillian, Hadley, Raylee, Naiya, Esmé, Thea, Evangeline, Ilse and Gwendolen; as well as his brothers, Martin, Henry and James; and sisters Herma, Grayce and Catherine as well as many nieces and nephews.  He is predeceased by his parents, Jan and Annie Eisses; sister, Diane Alkema; brother, Bert Eisses and his wife Dorothy, along with their daughter Laura; and sister, Renske Sitser. John was born on February 4, 1947, in Borger, Drenthe, Netherlands. He immigrated to Canada with his family in May 1953. They started out in Jarvis, Ontario but two years later, they settled in Glenholme, Nova Scotia where John grew up on the family dairy farm.  In 1964, he attended the Nova Scotia Agricultural College where he received his two-year diploma. After his graduation in 1966, he went to work for the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture in the soils lab, travelling all over Nova Scotia testing soils. He saved every penny to purchase his own farm which he did in 1970.  He met his wife Trudy at a church youth event in Truro. Trudy was living and working as a nurse in Halifax at the time. They married on March 14, 1970, and moved to the farm they purchased in Northville, Nova Scotia.  John had a passion for farming. Although he started out as a dairy farmer, he soon discovered a love of apple growing while working the orchard that came with the farm he had purchased.  He loved to travel and see what other apple growers were doing all around the world, bringing home new ideas and improvements to his own orchard. He was an early adopter of the Honeycrisp apple, learning about it on one of his many trips. At one point, he was one of the biggest growers of Honeycrisp apples in Canada. He was a two-time recipient of the Golden Apple Award. He also received the Distinguished Farm Award from the Nova Scotia Institute of Agrologists as well as Grower of the Year Award from the International Fruit Tree Association. John could be summed up in three words – Faith, Family and Farm. He was a Sower of seeds in all these things. His faith defined him in how he saw and interacted with the world around him. He loved his family deeply and especially loved being a grandfather. His life reflected the joy he had in all these things. A hearty laugh, a tight hug, a firm handshake or a clap on the shoulder – that was John. He will be deeply missed by those who loved him. Visitation will be held from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. on Friday, July 26, 2024 in the White Family Funeral Home, Kentville. The funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 28, 2024 in the Centreville Baptist Church, Pastor Bruce Patstone officiating. Donations in John’s memory can be made to the Valley Care Pregnancy Center or the Nova Scotia Fruit Growers Association for a special fund to further the advancement and development of young apple growers in Nova Scotia. Arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville.

Sydney, NS April 9, 1961 - July 19, 2024 It is with incredible sadness that we announce the passing of our sister, Dorothy “Do” MacNeil on Friday, July 19, 2024. Dorothy was born in Sydney on April 9, 1961, and attended Holy Angels High School. She is survived by her twin sister, Theresa McCarthy and sisters, Lois Parker, Phyllis MacNeil and Sheri Gillis. She is also survived by nephews, Terry Robertson, Donnie Vigneau, Matthew Morrison and Landon Morrison; niece, Robin Vigneau; and brothers-in-law, Dan McCarthy, Scott Parker and Jim Gillis. Dorothy was predeceased by her sisters, Jo-Ann Robertson and Cathy MacNeil; parents John F. and Dorothy MacNeil; and nephew, Mark Morrison. Dorothy did not ask a lot from life and she truly enjoyed the simple things. She loved to cook and bake and was an avid reader. Although she loved to hear about other people’s travels, her feet were firmly planted in Cape Breton and she had no desire to leave. Dorothy was a kind and generous spirit. She loved to find that special gift for someone, but especially when it was for her twin, Theresa and then once found, she could hardly wait to give it to her. Dorothy shared a very special life-long bond with her twin and especially enjoyed their shared birthday get-togethers. In her younger days she loved to hang out with the gang on a Saturday night for a game of pool and shuffleboard and although, shy by nature, loved a good karaoke night! She also enjoyed the occasional competitive, but fun, poker night with friends and family. She loved music and dancing. Dorothy had a keen mind and, although very much a homebody, was very engaged in the world in general and loved to follow the political debate of the day. Do loved her nephews and niece and was by far their favorite babysitter. Her brother-in-law, Dan became a very special and important person throughout her whole life and she loved to cook his favorite meals for him. Dorothy dearly missed her sisters, Jo-Ann and Cathy and we take some comfort in knowing that she is with them now. Although it is with very heavy hearts we are now saying goodbye to that quiet soul who was our sister, we take solace knowing that she is free from everyday burdens. A private family graveside service will take place at a later date.

Historical Obituary Whycocomagh First Nation, NS March 15, 1932 - March 20, 2007 Rita Joe, a revered Mi'kmaq poet, songwriter, and advocate for Indigenous rights, made a lasting impact on Nova Scotia and Canada through her powerful voice and contributions to literature and cultural preservation. Born on March 15, 1932, in Whycocomagh, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Rita Joe's life and work continue to inspire and uplift communities. Rita Joe was raised in a time of great hardship and faced numerous challenges, including the loss of her parents at a young age and being placed in the Shubenacadie Indian Residential School. Despite these adversities, she emerged as a resilient and passionate advocate for her people. Her poetry, deeply rooted in Mi'kmaq culture and traditions, gained widespread recognition for its lyrical beauty and poignant messages. In 1978, she published her first book of poetry, The Poems of Rita Joe , which highlighted the struggles and triumphs of the Mi'kmaq people. Her works, such as "I Lost My Talk," resonate with many as they articulate the pain of losing one's language and culture, as well as the enduring spirit of her community. In addition to her literary achievements, Rita Joe was a tireless advocate for Indigenous rights and cultural preservation. She traveled across Canada, sharing her poetry and speaking on issues affecting Indigenous communities. Her contributions were recognized with numerous honors, including the Order of Canada, the Queen's Jubilee Medal, and honorary doctorates from several universities. Rita Joe's legacy extends beyond her written words. She was a symbol of resilience and hope, inspiring countless individuals to embrace their heritage and advocate for justice. Her work continues to be studied and celebrated, ensuring that her voice and the stories of her people are never forgotten. Rita Joe passed away on March 20, 2007, but her spirit lives on through her poetry and the impact she made on Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities alike. She is remembered as a beacon of cultural pride and a powerful advocate for the rights and recognition of Indigenous peoples in Nova Scotia and beyond. I Lost My Talk I lost my talk The talk you took away. When I was a little girl At Shubenacadie school. You snatched it away: I speak like you I think like you I create like you The scrambled ballad, about my word. Two ways I talk Both ways I say, Your way is more powerful. So gently I offer my hand and ask, Let me find my talk So I can teach you about me To learn more about Rita Joe and her contributions, you can visit: The National Arts Center  and The Canadian Encyclopedia

Whitney Pier, NS July 19, 2024 It is with broken hearts that we, the family, announce the passing of our husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and uncle, Thomas ‘Tom’ A. Corbett of Whitney Pier on Friday, July 19, 2024, at the age of 81. Tom is survived by his partner in crime of 61 years, Ronelda; children, Karen (Johnny), and Troy (Lesley); grandchildren, Ambyr (TJ), John, Kaitlyn (Tim), Brittany, Breanna, Thomas, Troy and chosen granddaughter Davinder (Prince); great-grandchildren, Harper, Gavin, Thomas, Ryleigh, Parker, Layne, Liam, Kylie, and another on the way; siblings, John (Gloria), Bill (Martina), Tony (Janet), Gary (Vickie), Terrance, Brenda (Clive), Mary, Alma, Delores, Janice, Gloria, and Judy (Wayne); as well as brothers-in-law, Gordie (Helen), John (Valerie), and sister in-law, Mae (Deak). Tom was predeceased by his son, Thomas Corbett; parents, Alma, and Pius Corbett; in-laws, John, and Theresa MacPherson; sister, Patricia Hawco; brothers, Pius Corbett, and Robert Corbett; brothers-in-law, Timmy MacPherson, Mort Kelley, and Eric Palmer; nephews, Bick Corbett and Tommy Hawco, and his niece, Kim Lawrence. A welder by trade, Tom worked 30 years at the Sydney Steel Plant. Tom enjoyed shooting pool, fishing and spending time at his favourite place, Lake Ainslie. In the summertime you could find Tom listening to his favorite music and drinking a beer by the fire at the lake. The main joy in Tom’s life were his grandchildren and his great grandchildren who referred to him as ‘Old Papa’. From the time he fell ill, Tom was surrounded by his loving family at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital. A special thank you to his sister, Janice Corbett or as Tom would refer to her as ‘Squeak’ for being by his side every day. Thank you to the Palliative Care and 4C staff at C.B.R.H. for their amazing compassion and care. Visitation and memorial service to celebrate the life of Tom will be held at Pier Community Funeral Home, 1092 Victoria Rd. (entrance on Church St.), Whitney Pier on Friday, July 26, 2024. A gathering of family and friends will take place from 1 to 2 p.m. with the memorial service to follow at 2 p.m. in the All Faith Chapel with Father Paul Murphy officiating, a light lunch will be served following the service. In memory of Tom, donations may be made to Palliative Care at C.B.R.H. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.