Passed away peacefully in her 79th year, on Saturday, December 21, 2013 in the presence of her loving family, Beryl Louisa Reid (nee Stone) of Windsor Junction, Nova Scotia. Formerly of Gander, Newfoundland. Left with wonderful memories, her husband of 55 years, The Rev. James Reid; daughter, Kathryn (Andy) St. John's, sons: John (June), Plantation, Florida, and Douglas (Jill), Windsor Junction. Grandchildren: Cletus, Shane, James, Stephanie, Lauren, Megan & Evan. She is also survived by her sisters Jean Donnelly (Doug), Gertrude Snow (John) and Shirley Greene. She also leaves a large circle of nieces, nephews and friends. Beryl was pre-deceased by her parents, Henry and Helen Stone, as well as brothers Gerald, Bill and Robert. Beryl worked tirelessly alongside her husband in the Parishes that they ministered, starting on Fogo Island in 1958, followed by seven years in the Parish of Bay of Islands. In 1970 they moved to Gander, where they resided for the next 27 years. Beryl worked as the Director of Volunteer Services, James Paton Memorial Hospital in Gander for 18 years. A community leader, Beryl was involved in all aspects of the Anglican Church Women, both in her Parish of St. Martin's, as well as at the Diocesan level and at the National Church. She was also involved nationally with the Women's Inter-Church Council of Canada, serving as its National President from 1990 - 1992. As a member of the ACW, she was an active member of St. Martin's Scouts Group Committee, helping to organize fundraising, which enabled the Group to have an active and successful program for the youth. Her work in the Parish included being the director of both St. Martin's Senior and Juniors Choirs; she was also the Camp Director for the Intermediate Girls Church Camp at Killdevil Anglican Church Camp for 23 years. She was the director of St. Martin's Old Fashioned Concert, which ran for several years in Gander; Within the community, Beryl was active in the IODE, the local Home & School Committee, and other community projects. Beryl was recognized many times for her community volunteerism. In 1992 she was presented with the Anglican Award of Merit, the Anglican Church of Canada's highest honour, given to lay people who have contributed to the life and work of the church at a national and/or international level. Beryl also earned her Long Service Award and Medal of Merit from Scouts Canada and in 1996, was named Citizen of the year for Gander. Following a debilitating stroke in 1998, Beryl focused her life on her family, friends and her faith. She was especially devoted to her children and grandchildren and supported and encouraged them in all of their pursuits.
Cremation has taken place and a service celebrating Beryl's life will be held on Friday, December 27th, 10:30 am at St. Thomas Anglican Church, 3514 Highway 2, Fall River, Nova Scotia; Interment to take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Thomas Anglican Church. The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of QE II, 7.2 South for their professionalism and dedication in looking after Mom over the past several weeks. When you feel sorrow start to steal upon you, Be still, Close your eyes. Breathe. Listen for my footfall in your heart. I am not gone, But merely walk within you. Online condolences may be made by visiting the website www.atlanticfuneralhomes.com