Annie May Higgins (McKenna)
Lieu de naissance : Sydney Mines, Nouvelle Ecosse
Date de naissance : 18 octobre 1924
Lieu de décès : Sydney Mines, Nouvelle Ecosse
Date de décès : 5 novembre 2017
It is with profound sadness, and broken hearts, that we announce the peaceful passing of Annie May (McKenna) Higgins; our much-loved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Always known to be a night owl, she went to her final rest at her typical bedtime, 1:47 a.m., Sunday, November 5, 2017 at the Miners Memorial Manor in Sydney Mines. We will truly miss her but take much comfort in knowing that she is reunited with our father, Lorne. She was a true inspiration to all who knew her and loved her.
Mom was born October 18, 1924 in Sydney Mines to her loving parents, John Clement and Mary (McQuaid) McKenna.
She recently celebrated her 93rd birthday surrounded by love, laughter, family and friends. That evening, Mom and her dear sister, Theresa, also a Miners Memorial Manor resident displayed their keen sense of humour and wit that warmed the hearts of those in the room. On this night, laughter trumped tears. She has left us with many wonderful memories that we will forever cherish.
Mom loved her husband, children, grandchildren and great-granddaughters unconditionally. She supported everyone, family and friends, with faith, love and kindness through all of life’s ups and downs, accomplishments and challenges.
Mom is survived by her five children, David (Patricia) Higgins, Kevin (Karen) Higgins, Carol (Bruce) Vickers, Mary Louise (Alex Marks) Higgins, and Terry (Lois) Higgins. She was so proud of her 12 grandchildren, David’s boys, Sean (Sharon), Kieran (Alisha Hiscott), and Connor; Kevin’s daughter, Shannon (Iain Caldwell); Carol’s children, Paula (Michael) Gordon, Jana (Adam MacMillan), Michael (Whitney Green), and Mark; Mary Louise’s son, Alexander Lorne Marks; and Terry’s children, Bailee, Erin and Brendan. Often referred to as Nanny May, Mom’s heart was also filled with much love for her great-granddaughters, Ella and Keeley Gordon. She is also survived by her loving sister, Theresa (the late Gerald) Barrie and her brother-in-law, Art (Marguerite) Higgins.
Mom had a very special bond with her dearest Club friend, Audrey Cameron. Distance never interfered with this 70 year friendship. Mom will also be missed by close friends, Mary P. Hall, Bev Mitchelitis, Nora Doyle, Betty Cordeau, Carm Lyle, Patsy Clark (Club Friend), Mary C Hall and Noreen Penney and Melissa MacIntyre. She is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.
Besides her parents, Mom was predeceased by her loving husband, our wonderful dad, Lorne Adrian Higgins. They shared faith, love and laughter for 36 years.
Mom was also predeceased by siblings, Ann Bernadine, Mary, Peter, Frank, and Stella (John) MacDonald. She was also predeceased by (Club) friends, Fanny Higgins, Eileen Gordon, Trudy Young, Detta Haley, Kay Leblanc and Kay Young as well as Eileen (Buddy) MacDonald.
Mom was a 65 year member of the Catholic Women’s League (CWL) and a recipient of the coveted Maple Leaf Pin. She served in many leadership roles within the CWL. She was also an Associate of the Sisters of the Congregation of Notre Dame. She attended the Harbour View Hospital senior’s day care for 16 years, where she developed many new friendships.
In addition to her faith and time with her family, Mom enjoyed bingo and cards, tea and late night chats and Larry King Live. Many of us share the CNN affliction, especially these days.
Many thanks to the people who have added to her life with love, care and support. A special thanks to her niece, also affectionately referred to as our “oldest” sister, Madonna (Bud) Huntley. Mary Louise is forever grateful to have shared Mom’s final moments with Madonna. Words cannot express how thankful we all are for her strength, love, presence and support. She was our Rock.
Sincere thanks to Dr. Michel McKeough for providing years of professional and compassionate health care to both Mom and Dad. Dr. Michel’s sister, Louise was also instrumental in ensuring Mom’s health and well-being for many years. Thanks to all the staff of the Northside Homemakers, especially her friend, Karen Devoe; all the staff at the Northside General, especially those of 2W where Mom developed a new friendship with resident, Ethel Forrest. Finally, to the caring and professional staff of the Miners Memorial Manor, we extend a sincere thank you. Mom and her family were so at ease in her final days with all of you.
In lieu of flowers, suggested memorial donations can be made to The Northside Hospital Foundation, Harbour View Hospital Seniors Day Care Program, Miners Memorial Manor or the charity of one’s choice.
Honouring Mom’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Mass of Christian burial celebrating her life will take place at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, November 11, 2017 at Holy Family Church, Sydney Mines, with Fr. J. J. Macdonald officiating. A reception will follow in the parish hall.
A private family burial of her ashes, alongside her husband, our father, Lorne, will take place in the summer of 2018.
Words of comfort can be forwarded to the family at www.jmjobesfuneralhome.com.
Rest easy Mom and know that we will remember that a day without laughter is a wasted day.
Forever in our Hearts you will always be.
