Barbara Faye Thornham

Age 95, of Dartmouth, passed away peacefully at Oakwood Terrace on December 2, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She is survived by her four children: Elizabeth (Earl), David (Bev), Daniel (Karen), and LynnAnne (Iain), nine grandchildren: Bryan (Saundra), Scott (Julia), Chris (Talia), Jon (Lindsay), Kenzie, Abbie, Morgan (Jonathan), Kylie, and Caelan, six great-grandchildren: Liam, Emerson, Ava, Kate, Finn, and Aiden. She was predeceased by her parents (Aubrey [Radford] and Harriet “Hattie” [Carter]), a son in infancy (Harold III), granddaughter (Breagh), and her devoted husband of 74 years, Harold (Brud).

Faye filled many roles over the years, including Ma, Mum, Nanny, Big Nanny, and most infamously, Darlin. She always admired her family with love and pride. She was completely invested in the lives of her children and grandchildren; always seeking updates on their lives and accomplishments.

Faye started her career as a bank teller, then later in life worked as a receptionist for a local Dartmouth/Halifax radio station, CFDR/Q104, where she was fondly referred to as Rockin’ Faye Ray.

Faye had a clear and contagious zest for life. She enjoyed travelling the world with Brud and spending time with her family. She loved socializing at Brightwood Golf Club, golfing at the Hartlen Point Golf Club, spent many years with the Red Hat Society, and was a member of Christ Church.

Faye was a proud Dartmouthian and an avid curler. She was a member of the Dartmouth Curling Club and won a Red Heart to represent Nova Scotia in the national Lassie. She was an honorary member of the Ladies Auxiliary for the Dartmouth General Hospital for 34 years and received the Order of Tartan for volunteering at the Halifax Stanfield International Airport.

Faye will be affectionately remembered as being radiant and resilient, wonderful and witty, loving and loved. She was known as being the best arm tickler and pancake maker to her grandchildren, a social butterfly, a detailed storyteller, a green thumb, and a meticulous hand-writer. She leaves her family with a legacy of love, fond memories, and an abundance of delicious recipes. She had a warm and kind presence that was felt by all who had the privilege to know and love her.

Faye lived a long, fulfilling, joyful life filled with love. While her family will miss her dearly, they are grateful that she had a peaceful passing surrounded by her family, and that she is reunited with her Darlin. “Love is the heartbeat of life.”

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held in the Spring.