Ethel Grace Pitman

She was born in Curry’s Corner, Windsor, NS on December 16, 1929, daughter of the late Harold and Georgie (O’Toole) Barker. Ethel raised eight children, Patti Wilson (Peter); Susan Pitman; Malcolm (Paula); Judy Corkum, who passed away in 2003, (Michael); Stephen (Jerosalie); Helen Pitman (Jean-Charles Locatelli); David (Cathy Charles); Beth Pitman (Kirk Magee). She will be missed by her dear grandchildren Jennifer and Olivia Pitman, Michelle Corkum and Nicole Corkum, Malcolm Pitman, Jessica and Sara Pitman, and Connell Magee; and her great granddaughters Ava and Lennox Usher. She is survived by many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband of 68 years, Malcolm “Mac” Pitman (2020), her daughter Judy and by her brothers, Owen Barker and his wife Norma; and Arnold Barker and his wife Claire; and her sister Helen Rourke.

Ethel trained as a Certified Drug Clerk and, early in life, worked at pharmacies in Yarmouth, Windsor and Sydney, NS. Later, with 3 friends, she ran a catering business in Halifax. She known for her sense of humour, generosity, and hospitality. She was a wonderful cook and loved to entertain and work in her garden. Ethel played the piano well and guided us in our annual Christmas concert. Singing brought her much joy and she sang in several United church choirs. Ethel was the heart of the family creating memorable celebrations with her beautiful singing and wonderful cooking.

Ethel was active in various organizations, Kinettes in Bridgewater, NS, IODE in Sydney, NS, and she canvassed for many years for the United Way in Halifax. She was a member of an investment club and enjoyed playing bridge.

She loved spending time with family and friends at her cottage on the Gulf Shore Road in Cumberland County. Mac and Ethel also enjoyed many trips to the Siesta Key area of Florida and trips to Europe, Bermuda and the Caribbean.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Drummond Hall who took great care of Ethel over the last 3 years.

No visitation but there will be a funeral service with refreshments to follow on Monday, January 8, 2024 at 10 am at J.A. Snow’s Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Red Cross, or charity of your choice.