Phyllis died peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, April 13, 2022, at the Robert L. Knowles Veterans’ Unit in Bathurst, NB. She was 94 years old.
She was born in Pictou, NS, the only daughter of Edwin and Elizabeth Fraser.
After marrying her late husband, Ronald, in 1952, the couple moved to Bathurst in the late 1950’s and raised a family.
Phyllis endured long winters on the North Shore and always looked forward to spending summers at Salmon Beach to enjoy the salt water, sunshine, glorious sun sets, starry nights, good mystery novels, and maybe a glass of wine.
For many years during harvest time, she travelled to the Annapolis Valley to bring back Nova Scotia’s best apples to share with friends and neighbours.
An avid sports fan, she followed professional hockey, baseball, football, tennis and other sports, often disagreeing with the expert views of sports broadcasters.
In her heyday, Phyllis was a speed skater and played tennis and curling. She also volunteered with the Canadian Cancer Society, the Bathurst Music Festival and CGIT.
As an animal lover, Phyllis had cats and dogs throughout her life, and counted these “spoiled creatures” to be among her best friends.
Friendly, funny and independent, Phyllis knew how to have a good time and to make others laugh, but she also met life’s challenges with strength, stoicism and resolve.
She is survived by her eldest son Fraser (Joyce) and granddaughter, Jessica, all of Bathurst, Her second son, Bruce, lives in Toronto. Aunt Phyl also has nieces and nephews living across Canada.
Aside from her husband, she was pre-deceased by her four brothers, Jack, Bill, Don and Jeff, her youngest son, David, and two infant daughters.
The family gratefully acknowledges the wonderful care provided by the kind staff and volunteers at the Veterans’ Unit, and by her trusted physician, Dr. Cauchon.
A graveside service will be held on Thursday August 18th at 11 a.m. from Spruce Grove Union Cemetery, Bridge Street.
Donations in memory of Phyllis may be made to the Canadian Red Cross (www. redcross.ca) or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Arrangements are in the care of Elhatton’s Funeral Home (www.elhatton.com), Bathurst.
