Whitney Pier
It is with deep sadness that we, the family of Joan Marie Gillis, announce her passing on Monday May 6, 2018 at the An Cala Palliative Care unit of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Sydney after a brief, courageous battle with cancer.
Born on May 24, 1940 in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Joan was the eldest daughter of the late John A and Mary (MacKenzie) Gillis.
Joan is survived by her three brothers, Greg (Jeannie) Alliston,ON, Gerald, Sydney and Phonse (Angela) Antigonish; two sisters, Ann Doreen (Bailey) McCrea, Bramalea, ON, Lexie (John) Martin, Miramichi; and by numerous nieces, nephew, grandnieces and grandnephews. Joan has two surviving aunts, Sarah Catherine (Neil) MacKenzie and Amelia (Aloysius) MacKenzie.
Besides her parents, Joan was predeceased by her niece, Cheryl Ann McCrea.
For many years Joan worked as dental hygienist for Dr. Epstein. This was followed by giving private care to the elderly with beautiful dignity and compassion.
The most important element of Joan’s life was the love of her family and especially, her dear brother, Gerald who walked beside her every step of the way. This partnership, coupled with her strong faith and positive outlook helped carry her through this difficult time. Also, a most sincere thank you to Joan’s cherished friend, Marilyn, for her love and friendship these past sixty years. She will be remembered by her friends for being caring, loving and helping those in need.
Joan was an avid and talented artist who loved to sew, knit, quilt and crochet. She also had a deep love for Cape Breton music. Through these wonderful gifts Joan acquired many lifetime friends.
Visitation for the late Joan Marie Gillis will be held at the Pier Community Funeral Home, 1092 Victoria Rd. (entrance on Church Street) on Wednesday, May 9, 2018 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, May 10, 2018 at 10 a.m. at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church with officiate, Rev. Paul Murphy.
Interment will take place in Resurrection Cemetery, Sydney Forks.
Please join the family for a reception at the Pier Community Funeral Home after the Funeral Mass.
In lieu of flowers donations in memory of Joan may be made to either the Canadian Cancer Society or the Holy Redeemer Building Fund.
The Gillis Family would like to thank the wonderful cousins, neighbours and friends who have supported the family during this time. As well, our sincere appreciation is extended to the staff of the Oncology and Palliative Care Departments for the outstanding care provided to Joan during her cancer journey.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of GILLIS Joan Marie May 06 2018.source
Death notice for the town of: Sydney, Province: Nova Scotia