GILLIS, Mary Heather - It is with great sadness that her family announces the death of Mary Heather Gillis of Annapolis Royal, formerly of Middleton, Nova Scotia. She was the daughter of the late Donald A. and Mary G. (Teed) Gillis of Middleton. Heather was born in London, Ontario on August 19th 1950. She started life as a happy pretty little girl in her mother's image but before she reached school age the symptoms of Cerebral Palsy began to manifest themselves. She spent the rest of her life battling the continuingly more disabling effects of that disease. Although her physical capabilities were progressively impaired, her mental acuity was never diminished. Heather attended MacDonald School and MRHS in Middleton and made many lifelong friends of all ages in the community. Despite the trials and tribulations brought on by her medical condition she managed to maintain a sense of humour and ability to enjoy the little things in life that often amazed those around her. Until shortly after her 50th birthday, she lived at home with Mum, Dad and brother Tim. Eventually the constant care, which she required led to her moving to the Annapolis Royal Nursing Home. Heather's joys in life were simple: a car ride (especially in a convertible) on a warm summer day was made more enjoyable when embellished by the jealous "Ooohs" from the staff at the home. A drive at Christmas time to view the lights would brighten up her day immensely. She loved correspondence from family and friends, a variety of music, and liver & bacon (her favourite meal) on her birthday. Heather very much enjoyed visits from family and friends and would be quite adamant about people signing her guest book. Nieces and nephews could light up her day and, more recently, pictures of grand-nieces and nephews were particularly well received. She also loved animals, especially babies and had a large collection of pictures of the pets of her friends and family. Heather was overjoyed with the turnout of well-wishers when she was "sprung" from the home for a party at the Middleton Legion on her 60th Birthday. She is survived by brothers, Don Jr. (Victoria), Middleton; Bruce (Debbie) Paradise, NS; Thom (Dorena), Halifax; Jim (Flora), Midland, Texas; Tim, Middleton; Scott (Jose), St. John's, Nfld; Shaun, Gondola Point, NB. She was predeceased by an infant sister, Melody.
The family wishes to thank the staff and many volunteers at the Annapolis Royal Nursing Home who gave Heather such excellent care and did so many little things to entertain her and make her life more enjoyable over the past 13 years.
Donations in her memory can be made to The MacDonald Museum or the Old Holy Trinity Charitable Trust. A family prayer service and gathering was held at the home of Bruce & Debbie Gillis on Saturday January 4th. Cremation has taken place and a Memorial Service and Interment will take place at a later date to be announced.