Brenda, beloved wife, mother, Nana, sister, aunt, sister-in-law, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2024, just five days shy of her 81st birthday.
Born in Antigonish on September 15, 1943, Brenda was the daughter of the late Daniel and Mina Ryan. She was raised in Mulgrave and Stellarton.
Brenda was the cherished wife of David, whom she married in 1969. She is survived by David and their children: Denise (Innis) of Bedford, Krysteine (Craig) of Vancouver, Kevin (Lauren) of Hamilton, and Shannon (Shawn) of Windsor Junction. Brenda’s love for her grandchildren—Jack, Lauchlan, Oscar, Callum, Isla, Lucas, Cameron, and Sydney—was profound and unwavering. She shared a deep and lifelong bond with her three sisters: Karen (Bob), Lynda (David), and Mona (Peter). She was loved by her in-laws: the late David, Mary and Matt; survived by Mary (John), Sally, Jimmy, Elaine, as well as many wonderful nieces and nephews.
Starting university at age 16, Brenda was among the first graduates of St. Francis Xavier University’s Bachelor of Nursing degree program in 1965. Her career began as a nursing instructor, educating generations of nurses in Nova Scotia during her 30 years teaching in both Halifax universities and Sydney’s Schools of Nursing. Upon closure of the diploma schools of nursing, Brenda finished her professional career as the manager of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Mental Health Rehab Unit.
Residing in North Sydney for 45 years, Brenda earned honorary “Caper” status before moving to Bedford in 2015. She was an avid music lover who played the bagpipes, piano, and made valiant attempts with the harp. Brenda also enjoyed sewing, skiing, skating, and actively supporting her children’s and grandchildren’s activities. Her appreciation for life's simple joys was evident, as it is estimated she enjoyed approximately 50,000 cups of tea during her lifetime.
Brenda will be remembered for her unconditional love and dedication to her family, her career, and the causes she cared deeply about. She touched the lives of many and will be forever missed by all who knew and loved her.
Visitation will be held on Saturday September 14, 2024 from 2:00-4:00pm with a funeral service to follow at 4:00pm at the J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Dr., Halifax.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to the North Sydney Community Food Bank.
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