Janet M. Probert
Born In: West Middle River
Passed on: February 15th, 2013
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Janet Probert, on Feb. 15, 2013, at the Northside General Hospital.
Janet was born in West Middle River, and was the daughter of the late William and Rachel (MacQuarrie) Probert.
She is survived by one brother, William (Pat) Probert, North Sydney; one sister, Laura Smith, North Sydney; nieces, Louise Smith, Sydney Mines, and Donna Kalyn, Mississauga; nephew, Brian Probert, Ottawa; and many grandnieces and nephews, and the special members of her ‘extended family’ from Little Narrows.
She was predeceased by her brothers, Alexander and Donald.
Janet received her early education in West Middle River, going to Baddeck Academy for grades 11 and 12, and after a brief time teaching, attended Nova Scotia Normal College, graduating in 1948. Janet spent 42 years in education, over half in Little Narrows and the last 12 years as curriculum supervisor for the Northside-Victoria School Board.
During her career she continually sought renewal, both academic and personal, by seeking out and attending educational training and study opportunities, both locally and abroad. Janet was a member of the Canadian College of Teachers and the Primary Elementary Teacher’s Association of both Nova Scotia and Australia. She received a life membership to the Nova Scotia Teacher’s College. Evidence of Janet’s dedication and commitment to her academic pursuits can be found in the numerous awards and distinctions she received.
Janet was awarded the Centennial Medal, in 1967, in recognition of valuable service to the nation; the Education Quality Award, in 1977, from the Nova Scotia Teacher’s Union; the Curriculum in the Canadian Context award from UCCB in 1984, for recognition of her valuable contribution to teaching and curriculum development; the prestigious George C. Croskery award, from the Canadian College of Teachers in 1986, given for nationally recognized achievement and service in education in Canada; the International Reading Association’s Literacy award in 1988, for her contribution in developing and promoting literacy in the province, and the distinguished Canadian Red Cross citation in 1982, in recognition of outstanding voluntary service in the organization, and leadership of youth groups of the Canadian Red Cross.
Although Janet retired in 1989, she continued to have a keen interest in the changes and developments within the field of education.
Janet had a very strong sense of family and placed great importance in time spent with them. Janet was a member of Middle River United Church and adherent of Carman United Church in Sydney Mines. Her attendance and work within the church was very important to her. Janet also took great pride in her work with seniors, supporting their recreational and leisure activities. Janet maintained a keen interest in sports, especially baseball, hockey and curling. She found great pleasure in Scottish concerts and music. Janet’s values may be attested to by her accomplishments in her career, her love of children and the importance she placed on family and friends. Janet’s good works will undoubtedly live on, but for those who knew her, they have lost an educator, mentor, benefactor and a true friend.
Visitation for Janet will be held Tuesday, Feb. 19 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at MacAskill’s Funeral Home, 43 Grant St., Baddeck, N/S. Funeral service will be held Wednesday, Feb. 20 at 2 p.m. in Middle River United Church with reception to follow. Burial will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Middle River United Church or charity of choice.
“You have to go wholeheartedly into anything in order to achieve anything worth having.”
