Peggy passed away in Inverary Manor, Inverness on Friday December 1, 2023 with family by her side.
She was born on September 6th, 1932 in Glendale (Maple Brook), Nova Scotia to Florence Agnes (MacPherson) Gillis and Neil C. Gillis. Her mother died at a very young age so she became a maternal figure to her siblings which created a cherished bond that remains to this day.
Peggy grew up in Glendale then moved to Lake Ainslie to work where she met the love of her life, Ainslie. She moved to Boston briefly for employment but then she and Ainslie married and moved to East Lake Ainslie where they raised their family and contributed to their community.
Peggy enjoyed a good game of cribbage. If you agreed to play for a “loonie” or a “penny a hole” she would definitely take your money! Over the years she also played many games of BINGO and liked to show off her skills in the bowling lane, being very proud of the plaque she received in recognition of the "sportswomanship" that she displayed. She also enjoyed making biscuits, rolls, cinnamon rolls, apple jelly, and loved to serve them to company with a cup of tea at her kitchen table. Most of all, right up until the end, she enjoyed the company of family and friends. If pets came with the visit, it was even better-especially if it was “Goose” or “Lucy”.
Peggy is survived by her children, Donna (Ed), Valley, NS, Gwynne (Debra), East Lake Ainslie, Ian (Laura), East Lake Ainslie; grandchildren, Allan (Amanda), Fredericton NB, Brennan (Marika), Quispamsis NB, Maggie, Halifax, Alissa (Keegan), East Lake Ainslie, Ryan (Alexandria) East Lake Ainslie; sister, Marie MacDonald, Long Point, brother, Alexander (Glendale); great-grandchildren, John Ainslie, Lauchlan, Finlay. She is also survived by sisters-in-law, Anna and Kathleen as well as many nieces and nephews on both her and Ainslie’s side of the family who loved her dearly.
Peggy was predeceased by parents, Florence Agnes and Neil C Gillis; husband, Ainslie; brothers; David, Duncan, Donald; sister, Janette and brothers-in-law, Rannie and Bobby.
Thanks to everyone who made Peggy’s life more comfortable over the past few years… the wonderful Home Support staff who enabled her to stay home a bit longer, the staff at the Inverness Consolidated Memorial Hospital and the Port Hawkesbury Nursing Home. Finally, thanks so much to the staff of every department and discipline at the Inverary Manor who supported us like family in her last days and months.
Mom/Grammie… you were so good to us all… we love you dearly and we will miss you so much. Hugs to Dad/Grampie. We know that you have joined him and are at rest.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Inverness Education Centre Academy Breakfast Program or The Diabetic Association of Nova Scotia.
Visitation will be held in Inverness Funeral Home on Thursday from 3-7 pm.
Funeral Mass will be held in St. Joseph's Church, South West Margaree on Friday at 11 a.m.
Burial to follow in East Lake Ainslie Cemetery.
Online condolences may be made to: www.invernessfuneralhome.com.
