Obituary of Sylvia Merle MacDonald

of Sylvia Merle MacDonald 95. Bridgewater/Cherry Hill, N.S. It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Sylvia, very peacefully on April 16th, 2008, at Melville Lodge. Born in Cherry Hill, on Jan. 10th, 1913, the fifth of six children of Archibald and Stella Forbes. She was a kind and loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend to all she met. She enjoyed a long and healthy life, was active in the Church, the community of Bridgewater, and the lives of her children and grandchildren. To the end, Mom took part enthusiastically in conversations about the numerous topics in which she had an interest. She loved colours, flowers, gardening, reading, letter writing, and for many years painted scenes of her beloved Lunenburg County, which paintings are now in the homes of friends and family. She took pride in her appearance, understood fashion, and her great sense of style was found in her home and dress. She often amazed those that she met, with her youthful appearance and manner, when she would admit to her actual age. Sylvia greatly enjoyed the company of others and her friendships encompassed so many people, of every age, over the years. Mom always took time to inquire about the activities of the people she cared about, and always seemed to know the thoughtful thing to do, as she never forgot any important date. Visitors were always welcomed with tea and coffee, as well as her wonderful baked goods. Family gatherings were her most treasured moments, and never lasted too long. Mom was quite independent, and had managed her life after Dad's passing, very well, not requiring advice about her affairs. Her strong faith and will sustained her through the challenges of her later days, and her good humour and wit, was not diminished. Mom was very considerate of those who cared for her, never imposed, and was more interested in the well-being of others, more so than herself. She is survived by son, Vincent (Judi), grandchildren, Shannon, Brendan, Caitlin, Meaghan, and son Errol, Montreal. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews, particularly Estelle, who spent time with Mom and showed her many kindnesses over the years. Mom's very special God-daughter, Marlene Wheatley, was often at her side, cared deeply for her, and always brought a smile to Mom's face. Mom will be fondly remembered by many friends, whose lives she enhanced. She was a remarkable person, and was the last surviving member of her immediate family. Predeceased by husband Angus, sisters, Ivy, Audrey, Estelle; brothers, Waldo and Burgess. Cremation has taken place under the direction of Sweeny's Funeral Home, Bridgewater, and there will be no visitation. The funeral service will be held at 11 am on Monday, April 21st, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 123 Pleasant Street, Bridgewater, Father Eric Theriault officiating. A reception will follow in the Church Hall. Family flowers only, donations may be made to the Asthma Foundation of N.S. On-line condolences may be made to www.sweenysfuneralhome.com.