With heartfelt sorrow, we announce the passing of Nelida Young, who left us peacefully at home on July 6, 2025, at the age of 67. A devoted wife, beloved sister, cherished aunt and great-aunt, and a loyal friend. Nelida touched many lives through the grace, kindness, and quiet resilience that defined her.

Nelida was the fifth of ten siblings, born to John D. and Nancy Young in North Sydney, Cape Breton. She served over 25 years with the Department of Natural Resources as a land administration officer, earning deep respect for her dedication, integrity, and skill in managing Crown land and processing land transactions.

Beyond her career, Nelida was a passionate birder and creative enthusiast, she had a remarkable gift for finding beauty in the everyday and bringing it to life through her handcrafted work. She found joy in life’s quiet moments tending her garden, embracing the outdoors with an energy that made her legendary for long walks, baking the family’s traditional pork pies, and losing herself in the comfort of a good book. She loved walking on the beach, listening to the waves, and enjoying the calm of the ocean. Generous in both spirit and time, she was a constant, compassionate presence for her family, her neighbours, her church, and the wider community.

She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Jonathan Kenney; and her siblings, Benjamin (Heather), Elizabeth Flemming, Ann Bonnar (Ron), John D. (Janet), Michael (Connie), Theresa MacLeod (Glen), Colonel (Rosie), Alice Van den Bosch (Michael), and Brian; special sister, Jody Moore. sister-in-law, Betty Lou Innes (Jack); brother-in-law, Greg (Gina). She was also loved by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

She was predeceased by her parents, John D. and Nancy Young; her brother-in-law, Vincent Flemming; her nephew, Brent Young; her sister-in-law, Mitzi Young; father and mother-in-law, George and Catherine Kenney and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A celebration of her life will be held in St. Ignatius Catholic Church Hall (the church is currently under renovations), 1288 Bedford Highway, Bedford at 11:00 AM on July 14, 2025. Kindly respect that this is a scent-free service.

A private family interment will take place on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at St. Joseph Parish Cemetery, Bras d’Or, Cape Breton. A celebration of life for family and friends will follow from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Millville Community Centre, 270 Millville Hwy, Millville, NS.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly invites donations to be made to the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia or a charity of your choice.

Nelida lived with such quiet grace and generosity that those lucky enough to know her will carry her light with them, always.