Obituary of Catherine Blades

We are deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of our dear mother, Catherine Willena Blades, 73, of Donkin, at the Halifax Infirmary, surrounded by her three loving daughters, on Tuesday, November 26, 2019.

Catherine was born in Glace Bay and was the daughter of the late Margaret (MacMullen) MacDonald and Orville McGillivray. Following Orville's passing at a very young age, Catherine was very fortunate to also be loved by her stepfather, Phillip MacDonald. Catherine always referred to Margie as not only her mother but also as her best friend. Catherine met and married her childhood sweetheart, Paul, and together they raised three cherished daughters. Catherine was very community-minded and gave freely of her time. During her children's school years, she was a member of the Parent Teacher Association and Band Parents Association. She went on to teach Sunday School at St. Paul's Church, served on various church committees and was a member and President of St. Paul's Anglican Guild. She also served on various agencies, boards and commissions for the Province of NS. She was a member of the Queen Victoria Rebekah Lodge #63 and was Past Noble Grand and District Deputy President.  Catherine was an avid reader, had a keen interest in politics and, to our knowledge, worked every municipal, provincial and federal election with great enthusiasm. Catherine was a great conversationalist and could speak easily and at length on any subject. More than anything, Catherine was devoted to her family and ensuring everyone was taken care of. 

Catherine is survived by her daughters Joanne (Floyd), Paula and Jennifer (Eric); loving grandchildren Nicholas, Lauren, Liam and Lindsay; chosen grandson, Jamie; family and close friends. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her husband of 52 years, Paul; mother and father-in-law, Mary and Pete; son-in-law, Bernie; and chosen granddaughter, Sarah.

Visitation will take place Saturday, November 30, 2019 from 5 to 9 p.m. in TJ Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, 370 Reserve Street, Glace Bay, NS, (902-849-4199). Funeral service will be held on Sunday, December 01, 2019 at 2:00 pm in St. Paul's Anglican Church, Port Morien, with Rev. Myrna MacMullin officiating. Interment will take place at St. Paul's Cemetery, Black Brook. Reception to follow in the church basement.

Memorials may be made to the Cape Breton Cancer Centre Patient Care Fund or the St. Paul's Building Church Fund.  

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family by visiting tjtracey.com.