Obituary of Edna Mary Verge Hirtle

In Loving Memory of Edna Mary Verge Hirtle Edna Mary Verge Hirtle, age 92, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2024. She was born in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, on November 2, 1931, the eldest daughter of Stephen Jerome and Edna (Anderson) Murphy. Edna's life was marked by enduring love, as she was predeceased by her beloved husband of 65 years, Robert Denniston Hirtle. She is survived by her devoted sons: Robert S. (Brenda Bruyn), Brent (Cindy Stewart), Shawn (Denise Marchand), and her cherished daughter Deborah Males (Brian). Edna leaves behind a legacy of family and love that extends to her grandchildren: Meghan Hirtle (Ryan Robertshaw), Melanie Hirtle-Faloona (Adam), Madeline Hirtle, Brandon Males (Katie Richardson), Richard Males (Heather Francey), Jessica Hirtle (David Arsenault), and Brendan Hirtle; as well as great-grandchildren: Braxon, Poppy, Liam, and Lachlan. Cremation has taken place. On August 16, 2024, Edna's life will be celebrated at Saint John’s Anglican Church at 10am with burial to follow. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Edna had a zest for life that touched many. Her favorite flower, the yellow rose, epitomized her values of friendship, happiness, and well wishes. Known for her resilient spirit, Edna navigated life with humor and determination. She found joy in diverse experiences, as illustrated by photos taken in Guyana in the 1970’s with a shotgun and machete in the jungle. She loved driving a 1980’s Ford LTD around Halifax/Dartmouth with the bench seat pulled all the way to the steering wheel to reach the brake pedal - simultaneously boosted up by a throw cushion just to see over the dash - a testament to her 5'2" stature. Her adventures also included riding on camelback during a trip with Dad in Pakistan in the 1990’s. Small but big-hearted and spiritual, Edna's compassionate heart led her to volunteer at Mahaica Hospital outside Georgetown, Guyana, where she provided comfort and support to those affected by Hansen's disease. In the 80s and 90s, Edna returned to work with a passion for sales, a trait passed down to her son, Brent. More than making a sale, Edna cherished the connections with her clients, some of whom traveled specifically to buy from the beloved 'Ed.' Edna Mary Verge Hirtle will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, whose warmth and generosity touched the lives of many – just like the yellow rose she loved so much. May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love she so freely gave. The family extends special thanks to the residents and staff of Northwood Care in Halifax for their compassion and care, each of whom played a role in renewing Edna's gregarious spirit and infectious giggle.