Obituary of Joan O'Brien

Joan Genevieve O'Brien Glace Bay We, the family of Joan Genevieve (MacDonald) O’Brien, announce her peaceful passing at Harbourstone Enhanced Care Facility on August 31, 2020. She was the daughter of the late John T. and Florence (Strang) MacDonald, Gardiner Mines. Joan was a proud nurse by profession; she was devoted to the Catholic Church and served in music ministries at MacKay's Corner, St. James, St. Joseph's and Immaculate Conception Parishes. She enjoyed singing and playing music including guitar and piano. Joan entertained many over the years, including residents of long-term care facilities in many communities, including Glace Bay, Sydney and New Waterford. She was one of 11, gregarious in nature, she taught us all to live life to the fullest. Joan welcomed all into her home and into her life. We cherish the memories of her playing music and singing with her family. We honour “Mum,” “Gran,” for her love of family, her fun-filled laughter and upbeat happiness, the joy she gave, for her creativity and kindnesses, and for expressing her love in many beautiful ways. Joan was a devoted mother of six children, Reginald Boutilier (Catherine), Harold Boutilier (Adela), Wallace Boutilier, Carl Boutilier (Tara), Catherine, Karen Hache (Roger), and step-son Nelson (Marie) O’Brien; her 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Joan is also survived by her siblings, Basil (the late Effie), Evelyn (the late Dave Cole), Shirley (the late Peter Roach), Gerald (Priscilla), Geraldine (Tony Chiola), Maureen (Brian Corbett) all of Nova Scotia; as well as, many nieces and nephews who have lit up her life over the years. Predeceased by her first husband Reginald Boutilier,second husband Henry O'Brien; her siblings; Lloyd (Marguerite),ON, Eugene, BC, Greg (Betty) and Harold and wife Mildred, The family would like to thank her son Reg, for the compassion and care given to his mother and helping to fulfill her wishes, so she could remain at home for as long as possible. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of one's choice. The family would also like to thank Dr. Cadegan, Harbourstone Enhanced Care Facility, Community Care and Continuing Care Staff, who provided her with daily support and companionship as well as neighbors and friends who provided friendship. A very special and tender thank you to Father Daniel Boudreau. Visitation will take place from 5-7 p.m., Tuesday, September 8th, with a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Joseph's Parish, Reserve Mines, Wednesday, September 9th, at 11 a.m., with Fr. Daniel Boudreau officiating. Interment will be at St. Joseph's Cemetery, MacLeod's Road. Due to Covid-19 Regulations, the wearing of masks is required and social distancing will be followed. Thank you. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family by visiting www.tjtracey.com