NEW CANAAN – Thelma R. Brayley, age 89, of New Canaan.
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother on Sunday, January 10, 2016 at the Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre, Upper Nappan surrounded by her loving family.
Born in New Canaan, she was a daughter of the late Everett and Gladys (Skidmore) Gilbert.
Thelma was a long serving member of the United Church and taught Sunday School in the New Canaan Church for many years. A graduate of Normal College in Truro, she taught school in various rural schools of the area for 26 years. She was a correspondent for ‘The Citizen’ for more than 25 years, before moving to Amherst in 2010.
She lived for her family that she loved deeply and was always a little forward in trying to help. She loved animals and truly cared for the students she taught. Her door was always open for company.
The family would like to thank the V.O.N., home care workers and nurses of the surgical floor and palliative care for their personal and professional care, many with whom she became good friends.
She will be missed by her daughter, Deborah Chapman (Neil), Tidnish; her son, Lyle (Betty), Nappan; grandchildren, Kimberley and Dale Chapman (Norma); Chris Brayley (Barb), Marney LeBlanc (Mark); great grandchildren, Sammi-Jo (Brad), Jordan, Ashley, Sophie and Gracie Chapman; Kiera Brayley; a sister, Queenie Adams, Dartmouth; several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband, Ralston in 2007; sisters, Verna and Marjorie; a brother, Clayton.
Visitation will be held 1-2 p.m. on Wednesday, January 13, 2016 at Smith’s Funeral Home, Parrsboro, where funeral service will follow at 2 p.m., Rev. Elizabeth Davies officiating. Burial in the New Canaan Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to the New Canaan Cemetery or to a charity of choice. Online condolences at www.smithsfuneralhome.com .