Arlene (Simmons) Foley
Passed on: April 30th, 2017
It is with great sorrow, we announce the passing on Sunday, April 30, 2017 of our mom, grandmother, sister, aunt, grand-aunt and friend. Arlene was diagnosed with cancer in mid-November and fought a short but severe and courageous battle.
Born in Glace Bay Arlene was the daughter of the late George and Priscilla (Forgeron) Simmons.
Arlene will be sadly missed by daughter, Alison (Shawn Coville) Foley, CFB Petawawa, ON; son, Aaron (Sarah) Foley, Sydney; cherished granddaughter, Sophie; brother, Kevin (Amelia) Simmons, Glace Bay; sister, Brenda (Cliff) Smith, Port Hawkesbury; niece, Mallory Smith; nephews, Stephen, Shaun (Crystal) Simmons; grandniece, Ava; grand nephews, Ayden, Cole, Greyson; brothers and sisters-in-law, Tommy (Peggy), Billy (Linda), Michael, Mary and Anne. Also surviving are caring friends, Jeri MacNeil, Janet Murphy and special cousins.
Arlene was predeceased by her parents; loving husband, Alan (2015); father and mother-in-law, John ‘Bunny’ and Mary Isabel (Murphy) Foley; sister and brother-law, Patsy Foley and David Saulnier.
After spending her growing up years in Louisdale, Arlene moved to Glace Bay where she spent the remainder of her life. Arlene married Alan and together they had two children and many pets, lastly her beloved dog and great companion, Abby.
Arlene was a valued employee at Seaview Manor for 38 years. She worked as a PCW, diet-aide and most recently as head cook. Arlene was a committed CUPE union 2094 member and was on their executive as treasurer. She also was an avid volunteer for many fundraising activities at Seaview Manor.
Arlene's quiet, non-assuming and non-judgmental demeanor made her friendships that lasted a life time. All who knew her loved her unconditionally.
Arlene loved to travel, especially to the sunny south where she spent many years relaxing with an ice cold one and a good book. She loved our annual shopping extravaganza, but didn't really enjoy the border crossings!
Louisdale was her summer retreat where she enjoyed boating, bonfires and bar-b-ques. Family and friends were Arlene's top priority in life.
Our family wishes to express a sincere thank you to the doctors and nurses
at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Cancer Center. Also special thanks to her nurses, Wendy, Peggy and Frances.
Visitation for Arlene will be held 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. on Wednesday, May 3, 2017 at Curry's Funeral Home, 775 Main Street, Glace Bay. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Thursday, May 4, 2017 at Holy Cross Church, Glace Bay with Fr. Norman MacPhee officiating. A luncheon will follow in the church hall. Interment will be at Forest Haven Memorial Gardens at a later date.
Donations in Arlene's memory may be made to Red Cross Healthcare Equipment, Cancer Patient Care Fund at the Cape Breton Hospital Foundation or charity of choice. Family flowers only please. Condolences to the Foley family are available at www.currysfuneralhome.com.
