Laura Thelma Davies

Davies, Laura Thelma, went home to the Lord, early Sunday morning, July 27th, , 2014 at St. Vincent’s Nursing Home. Born in Sable River she was the only daughter of the late Vincent and Ella (Grayley) Dunlop. Laura’s early education began in a one-room school house. Later she attended Acadia University for two years but she was not content. Obtaining her RN designation in 1941, from the old Saint John General Hospital (NB), Laura found her lifelong passion. She took on many challenges after graduating, working in various hospitals around the Maritimes and Quebéc. She eventually graduated her own class of nurses in 1949, in New Brunswick. Framed and now yellowed, these newspaper clippings and the class photo of this event were treasured keepsakes. Her one disappointment was not being able to continue her studies in surgical nursing in the United States after the war ended. Although a great cook, Laura enjoyed trying new restaurants, something she looked forward to on the weekends. These Saturdays were special memories for Laura - meeting up with friends, sharing laughter and a new wine, tasting new dishes, listening to live music and lively conversation. Her favourite comment at the end of such an event, “Can life get any better than this?” At an early age, Laura’s mother taught her many forms of needlework. Throughout her life, Laura enjoyed creating pictures with floss and yarn. Intricate floral arrangements were her favourite. She leaves behind many framed pieces, gifts to friends that they will continue to treasure. Reading, especially biographies, was another favourite pastime and lazy afternoons spent with a good book, a purring cat in her lap were to Laura, time well spent. A gift of Laura Secord chocolates, especially milk chocolate covered ginger, would make Laura smile. On many a Mother’s Day, her grandson would give her “Cherry Blossoms”, a cherry and chocolate gooey treat they enjoyed together. Laura truly believed that chocolate was a necessary food group in everyone’s diet, to be consumed daily. Fridays, Laura loved getting her hair done, particularly if there was an outing of some kind planned afterward. She loved new clothes and shoes, always keeping up with the latest styles. (Mills Brothers was a favourite shop.) Into her 70’s and 80’s Laura embraced new technology. She believed CD’s were the best invention ever developed and she bought many of them, particularly re-mixes: Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra and the big band sounds of the 1940s. Her cellphone was another favourite; a devise she felt had been created just for mothers to keep track of her family, especially at dinner time. Predeceased by her husband Eric, Laura is survived by her daughter, Barbara Lynn; grandson, Eric (Peggy); and one great-granddaughter. The family is grateful for Laura’s many years of life and especially thanks the staff at St. Vincent’s for their loving care. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Vincent’s Nursing Home. Cremation has taken place. Visitation: 1 pm – 2 pm Saturday August 2, 2014 at Cruikshank Halifax Funeral Home, 2666 Windsor Street with Celebration of Laura’s life at 2 pm Saturday with Rev. Nelson Metcalfe officiating. Burial will be held at a later date in Sable River.