Nola Velvia Clarke

A proud Newfoundlander throughout her life, Nola was born in Windsor, Newfoundland, on April 24, 1943, to Jonathan and Gladys (Critch) Batstone. An outstanding student from an early age, she attended the United Church School in Windsor before graduating from Grand Falls Academy in 1959, earning numerous scholarships along the way. She went on to attend Memorial University from 1959 to 1963, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Education. Her love of learning remained with her throughout her life, leading her to later earn a Master's degree in Education from Mount Saint Vincent University.

A lifelong educator, Nola saw the potential in every student and was deeply invested in their success. Her teaching career spanned more than 50 years, from primary school classrooms in Newfoundland to GED programs in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, and ultimately to teaching statistics at Mount Saint Vincent University. She concluded her distinguished career there in 2017 at the age of 74. Gifted academically and driven by an enduring love of learning, she earned the admiration of both colleagues and students. Her compassion, patience, and dedication were evident throughout her teaching career, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives.

It was while teaching in Labrador City that Nola met and fell in love with Winston Clarke. Married on August 19, 1967, they shared a quiet and enduring devotion that would span six decades. Their love was revealed in life's simplest moments: a hand held while walking down the street, a smile exchanged across a room, or a laugh shared over a favorite television program. Nola delighted in hearing Winston sing as he moved about the house, and they were rarely apart. Through every challenge, Winston remained steadfast by her side, never giving up hope.

Nola was immensely proud of her children, Carol and Craig, celebrating their every achievement and supporting them through every challenge. She was always there to rejoice in their successes and help them through disappointments. She was their steadfast supporter, fiercest advocate, and a constant source of strength throughout their lives. A dedicated practitioner of the Queen's English, she passed along her love of language to her children, who remain forever mindful that they feel "well," not "good." They remained close throughout her life and valued the time they spent together.

Later in life, her two beloved grandchildren, Wyatt and Morgan, became Nola's pride and joy. Wednesdays were sacred to her, as they meant a day spent together with Nana and Popa. What began as weekly visits grew into a special bond, bringing joy, laughter, learning, and countless cherished memories to all involved. Through their grandparents' love, wisdom, and patience, Wyatt and Morgan grew into the kind, thoughtful, and caring young people they are today. The memories they created together will remain with them always, and they will miss their Nana deeply.

Nola and Winston enjoyed travelling the world together. She was a voracious reader, an excellent conversationalist, and a devoted movie lover. She enjoyed the occasional evening at the casino, as well as sharing meals, laughter, and get-togethers with her wonderful friends. Nola also found great pleasure in life's simpler moments: sitting by the ocean, strolling along the waterfront, taking scenic drives to admire the changing autumn leaves, and savoring her favorite chocolate treats, especially Cadbury bars and Lindt truffles. Whether near or far, family were among life's greatest gifts to her.

Nola leaves behind the love of her life and devoted husband, Winston Clarke; her daughter, Carol Clarke; her son, Craig Clarke and her daughter-in-law Dr. Amy MacFarlane; her brother, Munden Batstone, and sister-in-law, Liz Batstone; and her cherished grandchildren, Wyatt and Morgan. She will be lovingly remembered by her niece, Marcia White (Jonathan), and her nephew, Chris Batstone (Sharon), along with their families; many cousins and extended family members in Newfoundland and beyond; and dear friends who will cherish the memories they shared with her.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful nurses of the VON, whose daily visits and compassionate care over the better part of two years provided comfort and support to Nola and her family. Special thanks are extended to the medical staff at Dartmouth General Hospital, particularly the nurses of 3 West and the Intensive Care Unit, who cared for Nola on and off over the better part of six months and during her final days. Their extraordinary kindness, compassion, and respect brought comfort and dignity to Nola and her family at every stage of her care to the end of her journey.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of one's choice in Nola's memory.

As per Nola's wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service. The family may hold a celebration of her life at a later date.

Nola lived a full and meaningful life, marked by kindness, intelligence, curiosity, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. Her warmth, wisdom, and friendship will be deeply missed and forever remembered.