It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Myrtle Burns, age 89, at her home in Dutch Brook. Born in Sydney, she was the daughter of the late George William and Phyllis (Fry) Harris.

She is survived by her children, George (Tom) Burns, Louisbourg; Shelley (John) Cunningham, Tantallon; Debbie Burns, Loch Lomond; and Kerry Burns, Toronto; her brothers, Melvin (Arlene) Harris, Sydney, and Winston (Peggy) Harris, Arichat; her in-laws, Dougie MacQueen, Donkin, and Phillip (Dale) MacQueen, Broughton; and several nieces and nephews. She was a proud grandmother to Jerry, Marc, Vincent, Amber, Jacquelyn, Jessie, and Taylor and a cherished great-grandmother to Avery, Zev, and River.

Myrtle was predeceased by her beloved husband, Gerald “Jerry” Burns, and by her siblings Albert Harris, Arnold (Murielle) Harris, Howard (Maria) Harris, and Marie O’Keefe.

Myrtle attended the Nova Scotia Teachers College in Truro, Nova Scotia, and dedicated her career to elementary education, spending most of her years at Marion Bridge Elementary School. She was known for her patience, kindness, and steady encouragement, and made a lasting difference in the lives of many students.

In her younger years, she was an avid basketball player. She found her greatest joy in time spent with family, whether around the table during many birthdays and holiday celebrations, or during visits to Lake Ainslie. She took comfort in the sound of ocean waves beneath open skies. Myrtle enjoyed crosswords, reading, sharing stories, and welcoming friends, always making everyone feel at home.

She will be remembered for her sense of humor, gentle nature, quiet strength, and deep love for her family.

Cremation has taken place, under the care and direction of T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, 6 Churchill Drive, NS, and as she preferred, no service will be held.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cancer Centre or to Hospice/Palliative Care. The family extends sincere thanks to her family doctor, Dr. Christine MacLean, Palliative Care nurse, Brett Gillis, the many nurses and physicians who were involved in her care, for their compassion and support.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.tjtracey.com.