Sydney

With great sadness we, the family announce the death of Laurie Coffin on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Sydney. We are grateful for the care given to Laurie until the end. She suffered greatly, but left peacefully, surrounded by her loving family and friends. Laurie will be greatly missed.

Laurie was predeceased by her parents, Vincent and Dougalenas Coffin; brother, David and his wife, Maureen; sister, Cheryl AuCoin.

Laurie is survived by sisters, Kathy (John Dobbs), Annette (Jo Ann Ward) and Marguerite Thorne; brother-in-law, Sheldon AuCoin; nieces, Tiffany, Audrey, Lori-Anne Coffin, Jennie Dobbs, Karen Dobbs and Emma Thorne and nephews, Peter Thorne, Joseph AuCoin and Glenn AuCoin. Laurie is also survived by her beloved Dartmouth cousins, Beth, Jane, Margie, Kathleen and her Sydney Coffin cousins, Frank, Jane, Larry, Mildred, Robert, Jack, Richard and Kathy; as well as her five great-nephews and five great-nieces. She adored her family.

Laurie grew up in a singing family, and she possessed a beautiful contralto voice. After graduation from Holy Angels High School, she attended Memorial University in Newfoundland, where Laurie earned a BSC in biology.

Returning to Cape Breton, Laurie attended UCCB where she completed a diploma for Licensed Practical Nursing. In her spare time, Laurie performed as a cast member in the Rise and Follies! Never a dull moment.

Laurie left Cape Breton to work, first heading out west to Edmonton where she worked for the Edmonton Transit Authority. A scientific job opportunity took Laurie to the far N.W.T., a place called Sachs Harbour, where she worked as a meteorologist observation technician at the federal government weather station. After two years in the north, Laurie returned to Sydney resided with her parents and assisted with care of our aunt Jean.

Laurie lived independently in seniors housing. She had a group of friends who visited regularly. Laurie loved cooking and her apple pies were delicious. As Laurie’s health situation changed, she had terrific support from medical personnel, and she was so grateful for her home care workers. These workers gave Laurie six wonderful years in her apartment. A recent hospitalization occurred on January 5, 2026, due to complications related to COPD. The medical doctors and nursing staff at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital were so very helpful. Laurie also appreciated having her loving friends and family with her for visits. Rest in peace Laurie. You will be missed.

In honouring Laurie’s request, cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

Donations in memory of Laurie may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

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

Online Condolences

To all of the Coffin family, I am so sorry for your loss. I have very fond memories growing up in Ashby with you and my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Sending much love and hugs.
From:Linda MacLeod.

Heartfelt condolences to the family members and friends of Laurie. My family will look forward to attending at the celebration of her life. Sincere sympathy on her passing and in prayer for Laurie’s eternal peace.
From: Sharon MacDonald