Dorothy Claire Shears

Dorothy Claire Bulmer Shears (“Dotty”, Grammy) lived a life full of love. She passed away on July 6th in Halifax, at the age of 92, in the way she lived her life……. gently, peacefully and without a fuss, surrounded by her loved ones. She was predeceased by her brother, Dick Bulmer, her husband, Dr. Arthur Shears, and her son-in law, Doug Menzies. She is survived by her devoted sister Joan, her dear sister-in law Ruth, five fortunate children and their partners, 10 adoring grandchildren and one little great grand daughter.

Dorothy was a South Shore girl who spent her early life in Chester. She met her future husband, Art, while she was working at the Bank of N.S. in Halifax. After marrying in Chester in 1950, they settled in Halifax where they became actively involved in the community, raised five children, and made many lifelong friends, notably those in their bridge and poker group who met monthly for over 50 years.

Dotty spent as much time as possible in her “happy place” at her cottage in Hubbards, which became our family gathering place and where she again developed a community of close friends that were dear to her heart . Decades of summers were filled with visits from her growing brood of 10 grandchildren, as we all came back “home” to the cottage with our families year after year. Grammy and Grampy were the harbour hearth and heart that drew us together, despite the miles between us. They both valued the importance of family connection and relationships above all else and enjoyed their family and many friends to the fullest.

For Dorothy her greatest joy was to be surrounded by her loved ones, always ready with a comforting cuddle, a nonjudgmental ear , and an open heart, no matter what the circumstance. She was a beautiful person, both inside and out, who had that rare combination of warmth, wit and wisdom, style and substance that put everyone at their ease and made each person feel valued, brighter and lighter for having spent time with her. She took great joy in the moment and her lovely smile radiated a sense of contentment and graciousness that drew people to her. Everyone who knew her valued her approachable, unpretentious demeanour her thoughtful ways and sweet nature, her generosity and kindness, her keen and lively wit. Above all it was her consummate capacity for caring and her genuine interest in the happiness and well being of her “people” that are her hallmarks and legacy. She was universally beloved.

The family wanted to extend our deep gratitude to Dorothy’s devoted friend and companion June Graves, who took such special care of her over the past 8 years. You made it so much easier for all of us! Also our sincere appreciation to the staff and special friends (Margaret, Carolyn) on the third floor at Parkland at the Gardens and the caregivers from Always Home who made Mum’s sunset years so comfortable and meaningful.

Mum we will miss so much about you… your gentle, gracious ways and your unconditional, unwavering love. You showed us what that word truly means every single day and you live on in each one of us. We have been truly blessed by the way you so tenderly touched our lives.

A mother holds her children’s hands for a while

But she holds their hearts forever

A private remembrance celebration will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers, and in memory of Dorothy/Dotty, go for a walk on your favourite beach with your loved ones and make some memories.

Condolences book on-line at Snow’s Funeral Home (Dignity) on Lacewood Dr., Halifax.