Whitney Pier

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, sister and grandmother, Willena Phalen on Wednesday, May 5, 2021 in Victoria Haven, Glace Bay.

Born on March 5, 1934 in North Sydney, Willena was the daughter of the late Margaret and Walter Leyte. She was married to late Thomas James Phalen for 51 years until his passing July 15, 2015.

Lena is survived by daughters, Marilyn (Tom) Robinson, Linda (Paul) Kennedy, Ann Phalen, Catherine (Jay) MacInnis and Eileen Morris; sons, Dave (Aileen), Tommy (Bev) and Albert (Alma); son-in-law, Tim Hines; sisters, Margaret (Bud) MacInnis, and Allie Atkinson; 26 grandchildren; over 35 great and great-great- grandchildren; as well as sisters-in-law, cousins, great friends she made while working at Cape Breton Regional Vocational School and living on Griffin Street and many more family and friends.

Besides her parents and husband, Lena was predeceased by her daughter, Margie Hines; grand-daughter, Cathy Miller; great-grandson, Jesse Robinson; daughter-in-law, Paulette Phalen; son-in-law, Glenn Morris; her twin sister, Myrtle who died as an infant; other siblings, Clayton, Harry, George, Charles, Walter, Percy, Norman, Stanley, Lloyd, Marguerite, Mildred, Edith, Louise, and Irene; as well as many sisters and brothers-in-law.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, there will be no visitations or service at this time for the late Willena Phalen.

Donations can be made in Lena’s memory to the IWK or the Cancer Patient Care Fund – Cape Breton Regional Hospital.

Lena’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Victoria Haven nursing home for the exceptional care, love and support they provided in her time of need. They were always there to joke around with Lena and to make her a hot cup of tea.

Donations can be made in Lena’s memory to the IWK or the Cancer Patient Care Fund – Cape Breton Regional Hospital.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.

“Mother, you left us beautiful memories, your love is still our guide, although we cannot see you, you’re always at our side.”

Online Condolences

Sincere Condolence to your family Dave. Losing your Mom is one of the worst days of your life but know that she will always be with you in your heart and memories. We have known most of the Leyte family our whole lives and know that everyone who knew her will have pleasant memories of your Mom and her family. God Bless.
From:  Harry and Alaine Taylor

We are so sorry for the loss Of Aunt Lena, she was a precious soul. May She Rest in Peace.
Love Danny and Trish Leyte
From:  Patricia Leyte

Dear Albert and family, we were so very sorry to hear of the passing of your dear Mother. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. God bless, Allan and Julia Townsend
From:  Julia Townsend

Please accept our sincere sympathies on the passing of your Mom. We remember her fondly from children’s birthday parties, and visits to your home.
From:  Ed and Wanda Fedora