NEW GLASGOW – Isabel Margaret Morton, age 82, of New Glasgow, passed away Wednesday, April 3, 2013, in Palliative Care at the Aberdeen Hospital, New Glasgow.
Isabel was born in New Glasgow on February 4, 1931 and was the younger daughter of William McMillan and Mary Rebecca “Reba” (Campbell) Morton.
Her original home was on East River Road. Her family owned and operated Mortons’ grocery stores in New Glasgow and Trenton. At an early age, music became an important part of her life. She sang in the junior choir of Westminster Church, and it was there she began her lifelong connection with Margaret C. Munroe. At the age of 12, she became the youngest member of the senior choir. After Westminster Church burned, Isabel joined St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church where her good friend, Garth MacPhee, was the organist. Her musical talent was a great asset to the Kirk Choir. She participated until her illness no longer allowed her to leave home.
She faced her declining health with courage and optimism. Isabel taught piano, singing, and theory in her own home and in local schools for 61 years. Her outstanding work ethic and dedication to her students were admirable. She shared her love of music with her pupils, many of whom chose music as their career. Isabel made a significant contribution to the musical life of Pictou County. She created the Margaret C. Munroe Scholarship Committee and was chair for 18 years. She co-ordinated each concert with care and attention to detail. She held many offices in the Pictou County Chapter of Music Teachers and also served on the council of the Nova Scotia Registered Music Teachers' Association. For over 20 years, she was the Pictou County co-ordinator of the Royal Conservatory of Music exams. She made each adjudicator feel very welcome and even provided them with lunch during the breaks.
Isabel had many friends. She loved to talk and share stories. She had a keen interest in life and people and loved flowers and cats, especially “Scooter and Bear”. She passed on her love of music to her grandnieces, Jessika-Don and Rebecca. Her nephew, Donnie, and his family were cherished by her.
She is survived by her nephew, Donnie (Lilly), and her two grandnieces, Jessika-Don and Rebecca.
Besides her parents, Isabel was predeceased by her sister, Jessie and companion, Walter Tucker.
Visitation will be held on Friday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the R.H. Porter Funeral Home, New Glasgow. Her funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday from St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Richard Sand officiating. Interment will be in the Lorne Street Cemetery.
Donations in her memory may be made to the Margaret C. Munroe Scholarship, Aberdeen Palliative Care Society, or a charity of your choice.
Condolences may be sent by visiting: www.rhporter.ca