Agnes Madeline Potter

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Agnes Madeline Potter (Momma), who left us peacefully on March 27, 2025, at Yarmouth hospital. Born on October 26, 1939, in Digby, Nova Scotia, Agnes gracefully walked this earth for 85 years, spending her life in Bear River, where she built a legacy of love, strength, and dedication to her family, culture, and community.

Predeceased by her parents, Louis and Elizabeth (Labrador) Pictou; her beloved husband, Oscar; her sister, Jeanette (Farrell); and her brother, Alex (Pictou), Agnes is lovingly remembered by her children: Lorraine (Tony) of Bear River, Mary Ann of Bear River, Donald of Winnipeg, Chief Carol Dee of Bea River, James of Digby, and Krista (Greg) of Greenland. She was a cherished grandmother to Tracey (Jamie), Cory, Melanie (Rick), Melissa, Chelsea, Devon, Quentin, Carol Ann, Royden (Janelle), Cody (Toni), Cassidy, Jordan, and Karlee (Noah), and was blessed with many great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Agnes dedicated 30 years to working in food services with the Department of National Defence, forging strong friendships and bonds with colleagues and family along the way. Beyond her career, she was a devoted advocate for Indigenous rights, actively involved in her community of Bear River First Nation as a special spiritual Elder, the Native Council of Nova Scotia, and Native Women’s Association of Nova Scotia. She was appointed Elder of the East and traveled to Ottawa to represent her community and province, as well as serving on the Elders Advisory Council in Debert and Truro. Most recently Agnes had been chosen by Senator PJ Prosper to receive the Majesty King Charles III’s Coronation Medal which recognizes outstanding individuals who have made an incredible difference for Canada and our Mi’kmaq Nation, efforts of service and commitment that has made a tangible benefit for all future generations.

Agnes was a passionate sports fan, never missing a chance to cheer on her beloved Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Blue Jays. Whether it was hockey season or baseball season, she was always ready to support her teams with enthusiasm. She cherished time with family, and some of her happiest moments were exploring new places together. Whether it was a road trip through the Rockies, a quiet escape to Jamaica, or an adventure to a far-off destination for pleasure or cause, she found joy in every journey. Traveling wasn’t just about seeing new places – it was about making memories with the people she loved most. She believed that every young person should have the chance to explore the world and see their dreams of magical places come true. In her honor, the YSIF (Youth Special Initiative Fund) was founded to continue her vision, ensuring that future generations can experience the joy of travel just as she did.

A talented craftswoman, Agnes poured love and creativity into her work, mastering crocheting, sewing, and dreamcatcher- making. More recently, she found joy in diamond art, spending her evenings creating alongside our Baber. Among the many people who brought joy to her days, Momma cherished the visits of special girls, Raine, Momma’s “BFF,” and “Nurse” Lila, who brightened her life with love and laughter. Granddaughter Tracey “Buddy Dolly” devoted countless hours to caring for Momma – time she would have given even if it weren’t her job – so that we all could spend more precious moments with her. Her deep love for her Mi’kmaq heritage and culture was woven into every aspect of her life, as was her unwavering faith in the Lord Jesus.

Agnes will be remembered for her kindness, wisdom, humility, fairness, and steadfast devotion to her family and community. Her spirit and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. May she always be the light in our night sky, and the warm gentle breeze that hugs us. Msit No’kmaq.

Donations may be made to the YSIF c/o Bear River First Nation.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, April 2nd, 2025 from 6-8 p.m. from Jayne's Funeral Home, Digby. A funeral service will be held Thursday, April 3rd, 2025 at 11 a.m., the Bear River First Nation Heritage and Cultural Center; 194 Reservation Rd, Bear River, NS; Mark Cress officiating. Burial to take place at a later date.