Eileen Johnston

Eileen was born in Sydney (the daughter of Archie and Tina MacLean) and lived her entire life in the Ashby area. Her youth was filled with all the joys, trials, tribulations and learning experiences associated with being a member of a large family of modest means.

Following her graduation from the Nova Scotia Teachers College she taught at the elementary level in the Sydney school system up to the time of taking a break to start a family and raise her children. On her subsequent return to the teaching profession she became a pioneer in the field of educating children with special needs. Her first assignment consisted of a teaching contract with what was then the local chapter of the Association for Mentally Handicapped children. The visionary parents of this Association saw the need for a special curriculum and privately provided the resources necessary to start a program including securing classroom space in the old Argyle school, securing a bus and driver for transporting the children and, of course, hiring Mom. Over time this program was integrated into the local school system. As you can see, what is now taken for granted as an integral component of the school system wasn’t so in the days when Mom started. Mom remained in this field of special education for the duration of her professional career.

Many of her professional traits served her well in guiding her children and, when necessary, keeping her husband Bernie in check. Being a woman of faith she encouraged honesty and integrity; being a realist she emphasized the importance of education and the value of hard work; and being a mother she provided unconditional love and support. Despite all this, Eileen was required ( on rare occasions, of course) to provide some discipline and here, too, she exercised same using her unique combination of a stern stare and vigilant reminders of “ your Christian upbringing”. For all of this there are no words that can adequately describe what she has done and meant to us, her children.

Eileen also enjoyed the limited time available for her own pursuits. She was active in the St. Theresa’s CWL and its host of parish activities. She enjoyed bowling and her claim to fame was not her skill but rather her longevity for being the oldest member of the Retired Teachers Association bowling circuit. Playing cards was another favourite and her Tuesday night card group with “the Girls” carried on for over 50 years.

The “era of Grandchildren” became, for Eileen, a time of joy and contentment. She immersed herself in their every activity and became the proud and doting “Nanny.” She presided over the weekly Friday night family gatherings where the grandchildren became the focus of attention.

Eileen is survived by two daughters, Gloria (married to Rick Farmer) and Terry (married to John Williams); her son, Dave (married to Pam Stevens); her son in law Gus MacLean; her brother Redmond MacLean, her sister Theresa (John) Rostek; her sister in law Helen MacLean; and seven grandchildren, Dr.Scott MacLean, Willie MacLean, Heather Jean Farmer, David Farmer, Steven Johnston, Lauren Johnston, and Kyle Williams.

Eileen was predeceased by her parents; her husband Bernie; infant twins Mary and Joseph: her daughter Bernadette; her sisters Mary, Marie, and Sr. Leonarda and her brothers John, James, Michael and Fr. Leonard.

Because of the exceptional care provided by her caregivers,( the “Newfoundland Ladies” - Violet Chant, Marie Chant, Eileen MacIsaac and Louise Keeping), Eileen was able to remain comfortably in her own home for several years while her disease progressed. We are forever grateful to these Ladies. In her final stages Eileen resided at Harbourstone Enhanced Care Facility. Special thanks to the staff on Miner’s Lane, Kenwood Hall for the wonderful care she received.

Visitation for the late Mrs. Johnston will take place on Wednesday, May 30 from 2:00-4:00and 7:00-9:00 pm at the T.W. Curry Parkview Chapel, 775 George St., Sydney. The funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Theresa’s Church on Thursday, May31, 2012 at 10:00 am with Rev. James Oliver officiating. A reception will immediately follow and internment will be at Resurrection Cemetery.

No flowers please. In lieu, donations may be made to the Canadian Alzheimer’s Association or a charity of one’s choice.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.twcurry.com.