NEW GLASGOW – Madame Hamid graduated to the next phase of her life on December 17, 2012. She left us abruptly, yet enriched the lives of all those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Denise Jeanne Joséphine Hamid (née Rey) began her journey on March 27, 1944 in Sevrier, France.
She was the daughter of the late Marie and Albert Rey and was the fifth child in a family of 10. She is survived by her four sisters and five brothers.
Denise was the beloved wife and best friend to Ross Hamid. She imparted her joie de vivre as a loving mother to her children Sasha (Caitlin), Ottawa, Fazal, Calgary and Osman (Mallory), Slave Lake.
Denise was an International teacher extraordinaire developing exceptional French students in France, UK, and the US prior to settling in Canada in 1977. Denise married her Sri Lankan sweetheart in London, England on December 22, 1977. As newlyweds they returned to Canada together to start a new life in Nova Scotia in a town that embraced their diversity and welcomed them as family.
Denise was instrumental in bringing the French curriculum to Pictou County schools. She taught French at St. John’s Academy before moving to Acadia St. School and then Trenton High School. She spent a large part of her Canadian teaching career at New Glasgow High School before transitioning into French Immersion at A.G. Baillie Memorial. Denise retired in 2004 with a teaching career spanning over 35 years. Though retired, she continued to share her gift of teaching as a substitute teacher, tutor and through her work at Université Sainte-Anne, Université de Moncton and Sobeys.
Denise was a passionate student of life. She had a curious and adventurous spirit essential in fostering lasting friendships throughout the world. She cherished everyday as a gift and touched the lives of so many people with her kindness. She was a happy woman, with a wonderful sense of humour and a contagious smile. She would want us to celebrate her zest for life and come together to share our stories.
The Hamid family extends an open invitation to join them for a celebration of Denise's life to be held at Glasgow Square, from 12 noon – 3 on Friday, December 28, 2012. A time of tributes and remembrances will begin at 1 p.m.
Donations in her memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Kidney Foundation, VON or a charity of choice.
Private condolences may be sent by visiting: www.rhporter.ca