Edith Adeline Stark

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Edith Adeline (Dahlgren) Stark, who departed this life surrounded by her family on October 30, 2025, at the age of 84, in Digby General Hospital.

Born in Weymouth on January 24, 1941 she was the eldest child of the late Kenneth and Margaret (Saulnier) Dahlgren.

Edith married the love of her life, Jerry Stark, on June 16, 1958. She quickly became a mother and together they raised 4 children. Once the kids were older and didn’t need her as much she decided she wanted to get a job working outside the home. She applied for work at Digby Save Easy and, once hired, quickly worked her way up to head cashier. Her hard work and dedication to customer service did not go unnoticed as she was often called upon to train staff and help with opening other Save Easy stores in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. In 1993, after 18 years of service, she joined Jerry in retirement.

Edith enjoyed shopping and had a passion for nice clothes, fancy shoes and jewelry. There was no such thing as too much bling when it came to clothing or jewelry. No matter the destination she was always dressed to the “nines” whenever she went out, often eliciting many complimentary comments. Her pride in her appearance was not restricted to outings. It didn’t matter that her day may consist of dusting or scrubbing floors it could not be started until she was properly dressed, with earrings on and either a necklace or brooch to complement the outfit.

Edith took pride in her immaculately kept home and extensive flower gardens, all maintained with the aid of her trusted helper, Jerry.

Every season, holiday and occasion was celebrated by decorating the house both inside and out; but Christmas held a special place in her heart. When November rolled around she was anxious to start decorating and she didn’t stop until December 24th. Her deep love of everything Christmas related was apparent as there was not an inch of the house that wasn’t adorned with festive decorations.

Edith had a gift for making others feel at home. A generous hostess and natural entertainer, she brought people together through countless gatherings in her home, where family and friends were always welcome. She particularly looked forward to the weekly Sunday afternoon get-togethers of family and friends where she got to catch up on what was happening in everyone’s life. Often referred to as “tea and crumpet day” there was always plenty of coffee and something sweet to go with it for whoever wanted to drop in.

Over the years she belonged to various clubs and groups but the one that gave her the most joy was her membership in the Red Hat Society. There was a closet dedicated to numerous red hats, purple outfits and matching jewelry ensuring she was prepared for any and all events. She looked forward to each and every one of those outing with her “gal pals” the Digby Scallop Pearls.

Edith had a special way of making people feel seen and cared about. She connected easily with people, explaining the lasting impression she made and relationships she built with so many over the years. Edith had many extended family members and friends that she knew and loved and while we would like but can’t acknowledge each one, we hope they know how special they were to her.

Despite many health challenges throughout her life, Edith never let them define her. She dealt with all these challenges with an inspiring amount of strength and courage. Her strength and will to live knew no bounds.

To her many health care providers we extend our heartfelt gratitude for their compassionate caring of Edith over the last number of years and in particular her last few months.

Words cannot adequately express the heartbreak we feel over the loss of our wife, mother and grandmother. We are so grateful for every moment we spent with her, but it still wasn’t enough. We’re left with an emptiness that will never be filled. How lucky we are to have someone who makes saying goodbye so hard.

Edith is survived by her husband of 67 years, Jerry; daughter Debbie (Gordon Hewey); sons Brian and Michael (Joanne Griffiths); seven grandchildren - Sarah Stark (Eddie Chapplain); Matthew Stark (Sherry Pilon); Lauren O’Neill (Steve Werning); Caila Stark (Daniel Comeau); Jacob Stark (Jessica); Candace Mitchell and Bryden Mitchell; seven great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren. Also surviving her is sister, Kathleen Woodcox; brother, Percy (Crysti) and many treasured nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents she is predeceased by son Trevor; two daughters in infancy, Kimberley and Tonya; and brother Reuben.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, Nov. 13 from 7 to 9 pm at Jayne's Funeral Home, 15 Birch Street, Digby. A celebration of life officiated by Pastor Chuck Daniels will be held at Jayne’s Funeral Home on Friday, Nov. 14 at 11am followed by a reception. A private family burial will take place at a later time. Family flowers only are requested. Donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, Heart & Stroke Foundation or charity of your choice.