Whitney Pier
It is with profound sadness that we, the family, announce the death of our mother, Margaret Healey age 92, on Sunday, April 19, 2020 after a lengthy battle with Lewy Body dementia. Our dad, Earle, her devoted husband of 64 years, was by her side.
Mom was born on September 22, 1927 to Martin and Bridget Josephine (Dawson) Delaney of Ashby.
Mom was a graduate of Holy Angels High; class of 1946. In her younger years she worked at the Commerce Bank, provided music programs in Special Needs classrooms and taught summer music programs to teachers. Mom was a gifted piano player who loved entertaining at senior guest homes throughout the community. She worked for Parks and Recreation teaching beginner, intermediate and advanced ukulele. She was the director of the Cape Breton Ukulele Strummers for over 35 years until her illness prevented her from continuing. Together, this lively group performed at seniors’ homes, socials, anniversaries, reunions and summer festivals. They had a special ability to make everyone feel happy and forget their worries, through music and song. Mom considered them as her second family.
In 2007 she was humbled to have been chosen as the feature musical artist at the annual Pier Scape Festival; an honour she cherished. In 2012 she was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for her outstanding contributions to her community. Mom was a devoted Catholic and a Cursillista. She served for many years as a Eucharistic minister and Religious Education instructor at Holy Redeemer Church. She was an Associate with the Sisters of the Congregation of Notre- Dame for 30 years.
Mom enjoyed Sunday drives, playing cards, trying her luck at scratch tickets, going to bingo and after Dad’s retirement, travelling with family. She loved her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren with all her heart and cherished the wonderful times they had together.
Mom is survived by her loving husband, Earle; her children, Evelyn (John Young), Vincent, Kelley (Brian Laughlin) and Jo-Anne (Dr. Kory Tuomimen); grandchildren, Melanie Fewer (Mark Gentile), Hollie Fewer (Tyler Walsh), Robert Young, Katy Mahoney (Jamie MacNeil), Grant, Spencer, Ellie and Kent Tuominen; great-grandchildren, Braeden, Camden, Blake, Meredith and Carter. A special mention to her grandpuppy, Rassle, who was her faithful companion after our dad entered long term care. She is also survived by sisters, Agnes MacIntyre (the late Marty) and Jean MacLeod (the late Hughie); sister-in-law, Muttsy Burke (the late Frank); brothers, Joe Delaney (the late Betty), Pat Delaney (Myrna) and Jerry Delaney (Warna); along with many nieces and nephews.
Besides her parents, Mom was predeceased by sisters, Mary Tobin (the late Bill) and Theresa Smith (the late Ted); brothers, Mart Delaney (Ruth), Gerald Delaney (Marg), Ron Delaney (Marie) and Jim Delaney (Cecelia); along with in-laws, Phil and Shaw Healey, Marguerite and Fraser Burke, Jib Healey (Rhoda), Edith Healey and Sr. Evelyn Healey.
Mom’s favourite saying was, “A good laugh is better than 40 pills a day”. These were words she truly lived by. Her life has been a shining star for our family that will never dim. We have been so blessed to have had such a wonderful example of faith, strength and unconditional love in our lives.
At this time, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Hall and the dedicated staff at Steelworker’s and Lavatte’s Lane at Harbourstone Enhanced Care. We thank you for the compassion, kindness and exceptional care shown to our mother.
Due to social distancing, there will be a private family viewing only. Memorial Mass to celebrate the life of Margaret Healey will be held at Holy Redeemer Church, Whitney Pier when circumstances permit. Interment will take place in Resurrection Cemetery, Sydney Forks.
Donations in Margaret’s memory may be made to the Whitney Pier Boys and Girls Club, Holy Redeemer Building Fund or Doctors without Borders.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.
When tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand,
That an angel came and called my name, and took me by the hand;
The angel said my place was ready, In Heaven far above,
And that I’d have to leave behind all those I dearly love.
But when I walked through Heaven’s Gates, I felt so much at home,
for God looked down, smiled at me, And told me “Welcome Home.”
So when tomorrow starts without me, Don’t think we’re far apart,
For every time you think of me, I’m right there in your heart.
Online Condolences
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Truly a lovely lady.
From: Richard and Jean White
So very sorry to hear of Marg’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers to her family at this most difficult time. Glen, Eleanor (O’Callaghan) and Jeni Neal.
From: Eleanor Neal
I am sorry to hear about the loss of Margaret. For the time I have known her she was always polite and kind any time we would meet. I pray that you all find peace and hope in her memory.
From: Joseph Howell
Marg was a good friend of my late sister Shirley Bonaparte. I met her when Shirley was sick, Marg visited her at my home with Sister Rita Clare. She brightened a lot of lives and did her best to bring happiness to others. Please accept our condolences.
From: Evelyn Peters
So sorry for your loss Evelyn and family. Your mother was such a wonderful lady, she will be missed.My deepest condolences to you and your family at this very difficult time.
From: Florence (Cholock) Mac Kenzie
Earle,Kelly,Brian and family, so sorry to hear of the loss of your wife and mother. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. She was a very special lady and will be greatly missed.
From: Jackie and Bruce Matthews
Very saddened to read of Marg’s passing. what a great women. so many memories she left me with. listening to her playing the piano singing along with her in your dining room on Oakville Dr sitting on the polisher as she shined her floors for club. reciting my poems in the hall before each speech festival and drilling our spelling into our heads before our tests on Fridays. lifes work well done dear Marg
From: Patsy Gushue Neville
My deepest condolences to you all, remembering your mother in my prayers today,
From: Karla Boutilier Harris
Evelyn and Family, very sorry to hear of your Mother’s passing. Our condolences. Love and Prayers,
From: Linda and Phonse LeJeune
To Evelyn, Jo-Anne, and all the family, I am very sorry for your loss.
From: Matthew Cook
So sorry to hear of Marg’s passing. A very bright light has gone out.
From: Regina and Colleen Gillis
Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this sad time. Margie was a loving and caring person through out her whole life. We send you our deepest condolences.
From: Ruth Delaney & family
To Evelyn and Joanne and Family,
My deepest sympathy on the death of your beloved Mom. She was a great lady.
Please know that I shall hold you in prayer. These are difficult days with the many
restrictions re funerals and wakes. Your Mom went to heaven, so all is well!
Love, sending comfort and care, and many blessings,
From: Sister Sandra (Cooke)
Eunice and I would like to offer our deepest condolences to Earle and family, on the loss of their wife/ mother. Marg was a lovely lady,and an excellent ukulele instructor.
From: Lester Chiasson
Sincere condolences to all of the Healey and Delaney families. Although your loss in great, take comfort in knowing how many lives she touched in a positive way. Hugs to all of you during this sad time. Rest in Peace Marg.
From: Janet Gallivan
Evelyn, John, Family, and extended Family,
You were truly blessed. What a wonderful life, and so many accomplishments. We know there is another angel watching over us now. This world’s loss is God’s gain in heaven. So very sorry for your loss.
From: Patrick McNeil
Dear Earl and Family,
Margie was an amazing woman who will be sorely missed. Whenever I think of her, I smile and remember the love and joy she brought to so many. Bless you all in this difficult time.
From: Sandra Dunn
Margie was my God mother . An extremely kind lady and she reminded me very much of my mother ( her sister) Mary. Sincerest condolences on your loss from all of the Tobin family.
Blair / Mike / Lynn and Karen .
From: Blair Tobin
My sincere condolences and heart felt sympathy to the family of Margret She was such a beautiful lady loved being greeted with her smile everyday Love hugs and prayers sent your way. Fly high with the angels
From: Cyndi Dithurbide
Kelly, Brian and Family
Eric and I are so sorry to hear about Margie’s ( as my mom called her) passing. Her obituary certainly captured her enthusiastic, love and zest for life. My daughters and I loved the Margie Healey stories told by mom as they grew up in Ashby and walked to school to Holy Angels. Take care our thoughts our with you at this time.
From: Sincerely, Eric and Colleen MacLeod
Marg was a special lady. She had so much class. As a ukulele instructor, she always made you feel you had talent and was very gentle with constructive criticism. We all loved her for her gentle ways and beautiful smile. My thoughts and prayers are with her family at this difficult time.
From: Kay MacDonald.
Evelyn and John…So sorry to see of Marg’s passing. She was such a lovely,talented, and spirited woman. I became very fond of her and her pleasant disposition. She will be missed by so many . She contributed much to the community as well as her family. Please pass my sympathy to Melanie, Holly and families. From: Susan Burke.
A remarkable woman who will never be forgotten. It was a great privilege knowing Aunt Margie. Some of the most memorable moments of my life involved spontaneous Sunday afternoon visits from Margie and Earle when I lived in Westmount with my mother.
From: Karen Tobin
Kelly and Brian, Your mother was a beautiful person who was able to share her many talents with others. She had such a long beautiful life, you will have such loving memories to share.
From: John and Yvonne Donovan
Evelyn ,Earl and family,
So sorry for the loss of your beautiful mom and wife. She was a lovely lady. She always greeted you with a smile and held your hands like she was greeting an old friend. Her eyes lit up when she smiled.
You must be proud of all she accomplished in her lifetime. She was quite a lady! My mom and dad always spoke very highly of her . May you treasure your memories of her and may she Rest In Peace
From: Patsy and Alan Moore
My thoughts and most sincere sympathies are extended to all family members. Kelly my heart is with you and family. Margaret was such an amazing lady. The Ukulele Strummers were a true treasure. Our chats were such enjoyable moments. Truly special. I will treasure them for days to come.
My good neighbor since I was born; a fine lady and we are all poorer for her loss.
Gerald, thanks so much for your kind words. She is at resting in peace, until we meet again. Kelley
Thanks Gerald
Thanks you ❤
Thank you for your kind words, Gerald.
Thanks …
“the Crawley Boy”
as Mom always called you. She was a special lady, for sure. She is at Peace and so too are we. Of course, we will miss her dearly, but we have so many happy and fun-filled memories to fall back on. Thanks for your kind words and Sympathy card. Kelley
Thank you Albert
Jo-Anne and family my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Thank you Sandi
Earl, Vince, Evelyn, Kelly and Joanne and families
The legacy Marg has left on our Ukulele family is unmatched by any words that can be written. Our hearts are saddened to learn of her passing and your loss, please know we are with you. Our Ukulele motto is “ A good laugh is better than forty pills a day.” and with Marg we had well over that every Tuesday for many years. God saw Marg was getting tired, so He put his arms around her and whispered “Come to me”. A golden heart stopped on Sunday. When we lose a loved one here on earth, we gain an angel in heaven that watches over us. May you take comfort in knowing that you have an angel to watch over you now. May your memories help get you through this difficult time. Our deepest sympathy to all the family
Thank you so much, you all meant the world to her. Kelley
Thank you ❤
Thanks you ❤
Earl, Vince, Evelyn, Kelly and Joanne
Our heart goes out to you and your family on the passing of your wife, mother and best friend. The sun, the moon, the wind, the stars, will forever be around, reminding you of the love you shared, and the peace she’s finally found. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. May the memories of your loved one give you strength in the days that lie ahead. God Bless
Thanks again Paulette, for such lovely words and for reaching out to me by phone. It was nice to talk with you again. Stay safe and God Bless. Kelley
Thank you so much ❤
Thank you your kind thoughts and prayers.
My thoughts and prayers you guys at this time. I hope your father is doing well. If I can do anything personally don’t hesitate to give me a call.
God bless
Paul, Dad is doing ok, he knows Mom is at peace. Thank you for all that you have done for us, your generosity was treasured by us all. I will mention you to Dad when I window visit him tomorrow. Kelley
Thank you Paul🙏
Paul, you’ve always been so very kind and supportive to Mom and Dad. Thank you.
Healey Family
Knew Marg Through the Ukulele Strummers and her entertaining the seniors of Big Pond. Marg was always generous to share her musical talent. I am sure she quickly found herself a new musical group to join.
Norma, thank you for sharing … It it so comforting at this time. I enjoyed going to her Big Pond concerts (so much food). We already miss her so much, but have wonderful memories to fall back on. Stay safe.
Kelley
Thank you ❤
Our deepest sympathies to Margie’s family on this great loss. We met her about 40 years ago, her brother Pat had a summer home next to ours in Grand Mira. She was a wonderful woman and a dear friend. We connected many years later through CND Associate Relationship of which Margie was welcomed into in 1980. She was a faithfilled person who was most happy when she was bringing peace and happiness into the souls of everyone she met. Death robs us of those we love but it cannot rob us of the beautiful memories we share while they are with us. R.I.P. precious friend, you will be missed.
Thank you for your kind words especially at this time and thanks for reaching out. Kelley
Thank you ❤
Thank you for sharing your memories of our mother. The Healey family
Thank you for sharing your memories of mom.
GOD BLESS U ALL AT SUCH A TREMENDOUS LOSS TO FAMILY, FRIENDS, community and others who loved.her prayers are sent. Val O’Callaghan
Oh Val, “Marg’s” is gone.
She waited for a Sunday to leave us, probably knowing that it would, in some way, be more comforting for us. She is at peace.
Kelley
Thanks Valerie. ❤
Thank you ❤
Jo-Ann and family
Sorry for your loss your Mom was was a great woman who would do for anyone. She would always talk to me when I was a kid and ask how I was doing as I got older. She was able to meet my son when I took him to her house on Halloween when he was a kid. She will be missed.
Erin, thank you for sharing your memories of Mom
Jo-Anne, Earle, Kelley, Evelyn, Vincent and families:
On my second day of school in grade 3, the little girl sitting in front of me turned around and said “My Mom & Dad say they know your Mom & Dad”. And, so began my decades’ long friendship with Jo-Anne. From the very beginning, Margie & Earle welcomed me into their home, not just as a guest, but as part of the family. With the gentle and caring nature that was so characteristically Margie, she always greeted me with open arms, a welcoming smile and a loving heart. And, I soon learned that Margie could always be found humming a happy tune! Simple memories, but treasured by me nonetheless. May you draw comfort from all of the wonderful family memories you have made with such a beautiful woman who had a life well-lived. Sending you our deepest sympathies and love during this sad and difficult time. Love, Elaine & Chris
Elaine;
Thank you so much for sharing your sweet memories and kind words of comfort, so appreciated.
Thanks for sharing a memory, that you have of Mom. What a great story to read Elaine. xoxo
Kelly & Brian, we are so sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Donna & Rod
Hi guys.
Thank you so much. xoxo
Kelley
Evelyn and Family
My deepest sympathy is extended to you and your family . Marg was a beautiful soul who always brought a smile to my face. I ll always treasure the memories I have of my time spent with you and your families. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time
Carol, Thank you for the sharing your memories of mom.
Carol, Thank you for your kind words and sharing your memories of Mom.
Thank you Carol ❤
Thank you Carol
Dear Evelyn and Family,
So sorry to hear about your mom. She sounded like an amazing lady. You were so lucky to have had her in your lives for so long. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Marion & Gary Hart
Thank you, Marion and Gary.
Thank you
Thank you ❤
Vince and Family: So sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers during this time.
Thanks so much❤
We are very sorry for your loss.
Bert and Maurina Lewis, Port Hawkesbury
Thanks so much ❤
Thank you🙏
Earle, Evelyn, Vincent, Kelley and Jo-Anne:
My deepest condolences on your loss. Margaret was our next-door neighbour when I was growing up. I have many fond memories of her wonderful kindness. She will be greatly missed!
Thank you, Carol. So nice of you to reach out.
Sweet of you Carol. Thanks ❤
Thank you Carol for your kind words
Vince, our sincerest condolences to the entire family
Thanks so much ❤ Billy Betty
Thanking you
We are sorry to hear of Margie’s passing.
Rosalie (Doyle)and Dave Lionais
Thank you, Rosalie and Dave.
Thank you
Thank you ❤
Evelyn and John and your extended family, Phyliss and I wish to extend our deepest condolences on the loss of your Mother. Both Phyliss and I know well what and how much that loss means to you both
Thank you, Lowell and Phyliss.
Thank you ❤
Thank you
Evelyn, Pat and Myrna
And family
So sorry to hear about your Mom/ sister. I hope the happy memories of her give you comfort at this difficult time. Thinking of you all!
Thank you, Michelle.
Thank you ❤
Thanks so much
Mr Healey, Evelyn, Vincent, Kelly and Joanne I am so sorry to hear of Mrs Healey’s passing. She was an angel and a one of a kind mother and neighbor. My childhood memories growing up across the street from your family were wonderful. I could not have asked for a better family to be that close with. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very difficult time. God bless you all and I hope I see you soon to express my condolences in person. Love you all.
Charles, Geri and girls. Thank you for your kind words. We all were so fortunate to have grown up on that street. Beautiful neighbours.
Thanks so much❤
Thank you so much for your kind words of Mom .
To Earle,Vince,Evelyn,Kelly,Jo-Anne,and families,my sincere condolences for the loss of your wife and mother.I remember her from growing up in the Pier as being such a sweet and pleasant lady.The Pier lost another beautiful soul.My prayers are with your family at this difficult time.
Paul, thank you for your condolences and for sharing your kind words of Mom.
Oh Kelley and Brian, So sorry to hear about your mom SHE was a beautiful lady!! We are thinking of you.XOXOXO
Eileen & Wayne;
thanks for keeping us in your thoughts at this different kind of difficult time. Mom had a wonderful life and made our lives wonderful along the way🙏. xoxoxo
Kelley & Brian
My sincere sympathy on the loss of a wonderful mother/wife/grandmother
Charlotte
Thank you Charlotte
Sincere condolences for your profound loss. I lived on Victoria Road and Marg was born a few houses away. My mother (Marg Colford)and I would enjoy meeting her over the years. I also connected with Marg years later through a faithfilled Associate Relationship with the CNDs. Blessings to the family. Dianne MacAskill
Thank you for your sincere condolences.
God bless 🙏
Evelyn / Vince / Kelley and Jo-Anne ;
Sincerest condolences on the loss of your Mother. She was a fabulous lady and I had ( Blair) the honor of being her God son. .She will be glad to be reunited with her sister, our mother, Mary. They both shared a lot of similar good qualities
Your Cousins……. Blair / Mike / Lynn and Karen
PS We submitted a condolence on line too but they do not seem to be adding them
Thank you, we appreciate your kind words.
Sorry for the loss of your Mother, Margie. As a child growing up, I thought the world of your Mother and Father. Take Care Patricia Gouthro (Putt)
Pasty, thanks so much.
Dear family, I am sad of just hearing of your Moms passing. Growing up in the neighbourhood I always remembered your Mom as such a loving, kind lady. So genuine and sweet. She always went out of her way to say a hello and giving you that little bit of advice with a wink. She truly was the sweetest.
I hope your wonderful memories help you through this sad time.
Rest In Peace.
Thanks so much for sharing fond memories of our Mother, so appreciated ♥️
To the Healey Family. So very sad to hear of the passing of your mom. She was always such a beautiful and pleasant lady. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Carl, thanks so very much for your condolences and sharing your memories of Mom.
So sad we will not be able to attend the Funeral of your Beautiful Mom Marg know our thoughts and Prayers are with you all 💔‼️‼️( John is still receiving Chemo ) John & Dorothy Murphy 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻💔🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻