Rose Marie Abraham

Rose Marie passed away peacefully after a lengthy illness on Monday, May 6, 2013 surrounded by her loving husband of 58 years, Hon. Alan Rockwell Abraham, her sister-in-law, Ann Smith, her three children and many of her grandchildren. Rose Marie is survived by her husband and by her daughter, Louise Abraham-Pace (Robert Pace), Glen Margaret, Nova Scotia, and her sons, Alan Abraham, Jr. (Janet Merrithew), and Robert Abraham, Halifax. Her six grandchildren in whom she took so much delight were Rebecca, Sarah Beth, David and Emma Pace; and MacKenzie and Lindsay Abraham.

A proud Acadienne, Rose Marie was born in Belliveau Cove, Municipality of Clare, on May 20th, 1928 and was the daughter of the late Wilfred and Azelle (Comeau) Belliveau. She leaves behind two sisters and a brother; Louise (late Dr. Felix) Doucet, Weymouth; Juliette (Dr. Philip) Sapp, Los Angeles; and Benjamin (Georgette) Belliveau, Belliveau Cove.

After her early education in Belliveau Cove, Rose Marie attended Mount Saint Vincent Academy in Halifax and Normal College in Truro. After graduation from Normal College, she taught in a small, multiple-grade schoolhouse in Clare. Rose Marie then moved to Halifax where she was employed by the Government of Canada and where she met Alan. They were married in Belliveau Cove on July 2, 1955.

In the years that followed, Rose Marie enjoyed her role as full time mother of three children and wife. Her days were filled with making their house a home and also included many hobbies, strong and abiding friendships and community service. It was the same kindness and gentle touch that she employed in this role that prepared her unknowingly for the very different responsibilities that awaited her at Government House.

In February of 1984, she and Alan became the vice regal couple of Nova Scotia and served in that role until 1989. During that time, Rose Marie was among the first spouses of Lieutenant Governors to be accorded the title of “Her Honour.” Her kindness and genuine modesty made Government House a truly welcoming place during her and Alan's time there. She opened the doors of the “people's house” in a way not seen before her term as “Her Honour.” As a proud tribute to her Acadian heritage, Rose Marie was asked by the Premier to raise the first official Acadian flag at Province House to mark Acadian Days in Nova Scotia. This dedication to her heritage carried on and the Acadian flag flew from the yardarm at Government House throughout her term.

Rose Marie took great pleasure in her role as patron of more than 75 charitable organizations in Nova Scotia while Alan was in office and was active after her time in Government House with many more charities. Throughout her long life, Rose Marie was always known for her pleasant personality and sparkling smile. She equally enjoyed and warmly welcomed the company of both citizens and royalty.

Rose Marie will be missed by her sister-in-law, Ann Smith whose constant support and friendship over many years has been truly remarkable and is much appreciated.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax, where visitation will take place on Wednesday, May 8, 2013 from 4 to 7 pm. A Mass to celebrate Rose Marie’s life will take place at Saint Agnes Church, Mumford Road, Halifax, on Thursday, May 9, 2013 at 10 am. Reception to follow in the church hall.

Rose Marie's family wishes to offer special thanks to the warm and caring staff of the 4th floor of Saint Vincent's Nursing Home where she lived for the past six years. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rose Marie's name to the Rose Marie (Belliveau) Abraham Scholarship Fund at Saint Mary's University. www.smu.ca/give. choose from the menu"online giving/the Rose Marie ( Belliveau) Abraham Scholarship" To view or send a condolence to the family please visit: www.jasnowfuneralhome.com