Catriona passed away suddenly on January 9, 2019 at age 75 in the Halifax Infirmary. Born in Scotland, she was the daughter of William & Williamina Smith (Gibson). Catriona is survived by her husband, Donald of 57 years; sister, Wilma Nelson of Shotts, Scotland (husband Robert, son Willis, late son Russell); children, Paul and Angela; and grandchildren, Mark and Laura.
Catriona grew up in Shotts, Scotland, where her father was an enterprising coal miner who went on to own several shops and restaurants. As a girl, she was often called upon to work in her father’s shop. The family attended Shotts Baptist church where she later married.
She excelled in school attending the prestigious Hamilton Academy where she enjoyed learning Latin, Greek, Spanish and French. She continued her education at the Scottish College of Commerce (now Strathclyde University).
Catriona met the love of her life, Donald, at a Christian youth meeting in Glasgow, Scotland. They fell madly in love and married when she was 19. After a short stay with family, the couple moved to Glasgow where Catriona studied teaching and graduated from Jordanhill University. They lived with their German Shepard and two Siamese cats.
Catriona taught elementary school in Scotland until son Paul was born. Shortly after daughter Angela was born, the family emigrated to Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada where Catriona owned and operated a kindergarten and taught for years as an elementary art consultant.
Endowed with a lovely soprano voice, she took part in musicals and operas, did solo gigs, and was always part of a choral group. She once sang on the CBC show Ceilidh and she was locally known for her performances in the Three Penny Opera & Carmen. She also sang as a soloist and in the choir at Rothesay Baptist Church.
After a trying time, Catriona was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. This struggle resulted in an early retirement and a deepening relationship with God and family. Gradually, her health improved.
Catriona was a founding member of Kennebecasis Baptist Church where she was the choir director for seven years and produced musicals. She volunteered for the MS Society, for the Palliative Care Unit at Saint John General, as a literacy coach for adults, the Saint John welcome wagon, and as a tour guide.
In 2001, the family moved to Halifax for Donald’s work. Catriona continued to be involved in chorale choirs, volunteering on various condo committees, active in Grace Chapel church, and enjoyed her grandchildren. She enjoyed travels to Florida, Barbados and the UK, where she met many dear friends. Her Christian faith was important to her and she shared God’s love with others through prayer and loving acts.
Visitation with the family will be held at the J A Snow Funeral Home on Tuesday, January 15, at 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM. A service will be held on January 16 at 11 AM followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice.
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