Mary Elizabeth Basden

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Elizabeth Basden ( nee Fraser ), much loved Wife and Mother, in the early hours of Tuesday, October 20, after a protracted struggle against the effects of dementia. This world has lost one of its kindest, gentlest souls, with her passing.

Born in Halifax, raised in the Dartmouth neighborhood of Woodside, Mary was the daughter of the late Ronald and Marcella Fraser. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her much beloved brothers, Colin and Blaise.

She is survived by her Husband, Randall ( Randy / Rand / Mr. Basden ), her much adored children, Daughter Nicole Basden-Rain and Son James. They were the Joy of Mary's life.

She is also survived by Grandsons, Lucas and Tristan Rain, Son-in-Law, Liviu Rain, by her Brothers, Joe Fraser and James Fraser ( Christine Berube ), by her beloved Sister-in-Law, Debbie Fraser ( late Colin ) and nephews, nieces and extended family members, too numerous to list. Mary carried them all close to her heart.

Mary was best known for her sweet disposition and caring nature and that big infectious smile, all rosy-cheeks and dimples. She had an affinity for children and the elderly, to the extent that, when in public, her husband would often have to "run interference", so she wouldn't be distracted by a cute toddler or an elderly passer-by. When the children were school-aged, Mary took it upon herself to always accompany them to the school bus stop, protecting them and all of the neighborhood children from any and all perceived threats ( abduction, traffic mis-haps etc. - "you never know what might happen" ). Mary was somewhat of a worrier. She also volunteered at the Elementary school, likely so that she could keep an eye on Nicole and James. She probably would have continued that responsibility through Junior High . . . possibly even High School, if she had been allowed. She was the quintessential "Mother Hen", sometimes to the chagrin of her children.

While not known for her culinary skills ( Mary was a meat and potatoes cook ), she was well-known for her baking ability, in particular her carrot cake, which was a crowd favourite at many a family gathering. It was particularly a favourite of her late father-in-law, who requested one for every birthday, much to Mary's delight.

Mary loved to dance. When the music started, she loved to be the first on the dance floor, much to her husband's discomfort. Woe be unto any "wall flower", young or old - Mary would give them no peace, until she managed to get them up on the floor. Mary would dance with abandon.

Mary was happiest when socializing with friends - sitting in the sun, somewhere with a water view, perhaps with the occasional glass of wine. In her later years, her days were spent on her front deck, surrounded by trees, flowers, birds and her cats, sitting where she had a clear view of all passers-by and could keep an eye on who was coming or going. She loved her Brookside neighborhood but was always a "Woodside Girl" at heart.

The family would like to thank everyone who has extended so many kind condolences and thoughts, not to mention all the kind support over the years, as Mary struggled through the stages of dementia. The out-pouring of Love has been tangible and heart-warming. A special thanks goes out to all the staff of the Melville Lodge Long Term Care Home - Mary's residence, after home care was no longer possible. Their compassionate care-giving and professionalism was second to none. An extra special thanks goes to Janet Langille, Mary's life-long friend, who has been such a steady friend and companion, during the last few weeks and months.

At Mary's request, there will not be any viewing or service ( she never liked being the center of attention ). At a future date, there will likely be an open house or Celebration of Life. As per Mary's wishes, cremation has taken place. Her ashes will be set adrift, in the ocean, off the shore at her late Uncle Jim's farm, located in Bayfield, Antigonish County. Mary's happiest childhood memories were made in Bayfield - Summers spent with her Cousins at her Uncle Connor Boyle's house.