Catherine Dolena Wilson

It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, wife, sister and friend, Catherine Wilson, age 79, of Springhill, Nova Scotia.

Born in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, Cathy was a woman whose life was defined by love, faith, family, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to the people and community she held dear.

She met the love of her life, Gary Wilson of Springhill, and from the very beginning, their story was one of love and partnership. Together, they built a life, raised their family, and created a home filled with traditions, laughter, strong values, and an abundance of love.

A woman who never believed in sitting still, Cathy worked numerous jobs throughout her life. She was a talented hairdresser and a hardworking woman who always seemed to find a way to provide for her family and pursue her dreams. Eventually, through determination and courage, she opened her own floral shop — a dream she was incredibly proud to make a reality. Her creativity and love of flowers became another beautiful expression of who she was.

But her greatest accomplishment was always her family.

Cathy gave everything she had to her children and grandchildren. She was the kind of mother who made sure there was a homemade meal on the table, a spotless and welcoming home, and a special touch for every birthday and holiday. Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, birthdays — every occasion became an event because Cathy believed the people she loved deserved to feel special.

She was happiest when her home was full. She loved hosting holidays, dinner parties, and family get-togethers, and there was always room for one more at her table. Her door was open, her table was set, and somehow there was always enough food.

Her grandchildren held an especially precious place in her heart. To them, she was affectionately known as “G-Ma.” She spoiled them with love, attention, traditions, and memories that will stay with them forever. She had a strict code of discipline and expectations, and everyone knew there were rules at G-Ma’s house — but behind that firmness was a heart that would do absolutely anything for her family.

Her faith was the foundation of her life. A devoted Catholic, she made sure her children were raised in the church, attending Mass every Sunday and learning the importance of faith, family, and giving back. She also devoted her time to teaching Sunday school, helping to pass those values on to another generation.

Cathy was also deeply committed to her community. She gave countless hours to fundraising for Springhill Minor Hockey, always willing to lend her time, energy, and talents to help local children and families. She was a strong advocate and volunteer during campaigns for the Progressive Conservative Party, giving generously of her time because she believed in contributing to the community and causes she cared about.

She was, in every sense, a woman of determination.

She worked hard.

She loved fiercely.

She gave generously.

She expected the best from those she loved.

And she never stopped putting her family first.

For those of us who knew her best, Cathy will be remembered not only for everything she did, but for the way she made us feel — cared for, protected, welcomed, and loved.

Her kitchen, her home, her flowers, her holiday traditions, her Sunday dinners, her celebrations, her rules, her laughter, and her unmistakable presence will forever be part of our family story.

She was predeceased by her loving husband and lifelong love Gary Wilson, and her second husband Donald Slade, she is survived by her children Catherine Bent (Steve) and Michael Wilson (Natalie) and, grandchildren Kelly Bent (Candace),Kyla, Cole, Chad Wilson (Allie), Chloe and great grandchildren Andie Wilson and Beau Bent, and Brother Greg Burke and Sisters Claire Paulette Lewis, Judith Lorraine Burke and Therese Burke.

Although our hearts are broken by her absence, we find comfort knowing that the lessons she taught us, the traditions she created, and the love she poured into our family will continue through every generation.

She gave us a childhood filled with memories, a family held together by love, and a lifetime of traditions.

Mom, G-Ma, you gave us everything.

And now, it is our turn to carry your love forward.

May you rest peacefully in the arms of the Lord, knowing that you were deeply loved, immensely appreciated, and will never, ever be forgotten.

Until we meet again.

There will be a private family gathering at a future date.