LYNDS, Avis Elizabeth - 79, Belmont, passed away suddenly at home on Monday morning, April 12, 2010. Born September 1, 1930, in Belmont, she was a daughter of the late Arnold and Alma (Roode) Staples. Avis graduated from Normal College in 1951 and went on to teach in East Mines, Lower Truro, Lower Onslow and most recently at Chiganois Elementary School, Masstown. She had a special way with her students and was much loved and still remembered fondly by them. She was a director of MSFHA, member of Retired Teachers Association, Colchester Historical Museum and attended the former Wesley United Church, Belmont. She enjoyed life to the fullest and kept active by helping her husband, Russell, pile wood and enjoying their daily walks and gardening, doing crossword puzzles, watching game shows and listening to all kinds of music, reading romance novels, especially Danielle Steele, collecting antique glass, family fishing trips and tending to her African violets. She enjoyed bowling with the Senior's League and watching curling. She especially loved spoiling her "canine granddaughter", Biscuit. Avis was the last surviving member of her immediate family and is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Russell LeRoy; cherished and devoted best friend and daughter, Jan (Janeen) Parker; son-in-law, Gordie Parker; granddaughter, Tanya, who was the apple of her eye and she was so very proud of for all her accomplishments; brothers-in-law, Bruce and Kenny Lynds; many nieces and nephews; special great-great-niece, Jessica Lynds, whose visits she enjoyed so much. Avis was also survived by many International grandchildren from Brazil, Korea, Germany, Italy, Columbia and Mexico. Along with her parents, she was predeceased by sisters, Gladys (Delmar) Ramsden, Eileen Lynds; brothers, Carson (Eva), Layton. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall ~ Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro, where Avis' family will receive friends from 7-9 p.m., today, April 13, 2010, and where the funeral service will be held 2 p.m., Wednesday, April 14, 2010, Reverend Leslie Jobb officiating. Reception will follow. As a sign of respect, on the way to the interment in Belmont Cemetery, the funeral procession will stop in front of Avis' house. Family flowers only. If so desired, donations in Avis' memory to SPCA or Northwood Manor (Televised Music) are welcomed. Private messages of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting the "Guest Book" at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com