Bernadette McSweeney Rice

Died peacefully at home surrounded by the love of her family. Beloved wife of the late Donald Bemister Rice. Born at home on Quinpool Road in Halifax on July 13th, 1927 to the late Captain Nicholas Lamont Power, MBE and Frances (McSweeney) Power. After graduation from Saint Patrick’s High School for Girls, Mom went on to attain her qualifications as a certified clerk (pharmacy technician). As a new bride, Mom moved with her pharmacist husband to Bathurst, New Brunswick. There they worked side by side in Rice’s Drugstore for 24 years. Mom maintained her cherished friendships from her years in Bathurst even after Dad’s retirement and their move back to Halifax in 1974. She was a lifelong member of the CWL, enjoyed a good game of bridge and was a bowler extraordinaire well into her 80’s. Watching Mom and Dad skating together on the lagoon at Youghall Beach in Bathurst was a sight to behold. She was very proud of walking across the Confederation Bridge with her brother Nicholas in 1997. Mom had many fond memories of a happy childhood and her times spent at their summer home in Portuguese Cove. At 16 years old she saved the life of a young boy from drowning in Purcells’s Lake for which she received national recognition. She devoted herself to the care of her husband and siblings and volunteered at the Victoria general Hospital until the age of 88. Survived by her children, Donald (Aurella Doiron) Bayport, Cynthia, Halifax and Peter (Irene) Beaverbank; Grandchildren Jennifer (Wayne Lemire), Timothy (Theresa Lee), Erin (Jason Arsenault), John Jeffrey (Erica), Megan and Kelsey; Great grandchildren Julie Ann, Andrew, Declan, Cohen, Lauren and Paige; Sister-in-law Carol Power. Also survived by cherished nieces and nephews who brought such joy to mom with their cards sent to her over the years. Predeceased by her parents, husband and all her dear siblings: Katherine (Kae), Nicholas (Micky), Clara, Helen, Donald, Margaret and William (Billy). A funeral mass will be held at Saint Benedict’s Church on Tuesday January 19, 2021, followed by burial at the Gate of Heaven. Donations in remembrance may be made to Halifax Hospice or charity of your choice. Our family would like to acknowledge the dedicated care from Dr. Trixie Gregoire, the Palliative Care Team especially Sandy and Claire, the VON, the Home Instead caregivers, especially Kelsey, Manny, Brooke and Jane and prayers from family and friends. A heartfelt thank you to her nieces Cathy Boucher and Shirley Ann Power for their enduring support of Mom.