Helen Catherine MacIntosh MacAdam

MacAdam, Helen Catherine - Born in 1927, passed away peacefully November 7, 2012 after a brief illness. Helen was born in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia and was the eldest child of John A. and Peg MacIntosh. Helen was predeceased by her parents; her husband; Roddie MacAdam and her brother Angus MacIntosh. Surviving Helen are her children Margaret (Peggy) Lawson; John MacAdam; grandchildren Connor and Bhreagh MacAdam. Sisters Sally (Mike); Betty (Leo); Mary and Anne (Jerry) Dianne Shaw-MacAdam and many nieces and nephews. All loved deeply by Helen. Helen spent her childhood years in Glace Bay and East Bay at the family bungalow during the summer months. Upon receiving her Teaching certificate Helen took her first position at Holy Cross School in Glace Bay. Helen finished her teaching career at John W. MacLeod / Flemming Tower School in Halifax; retiring in 1985. Helen may have retired in 1985; but she was teaching all around her until her death. Helen taught all of her family grace; compassion; humour and unconditional love. Helen and Roddie were both involved and dedicated in the care and development of their grandchildren taking an active role in raising Connor and Bhreagh. The grandchildren are better people for having had Helen's guidance in their lives. Upon retiring from teaching Helen was active in a volunteer capacity for many years. She volunteered with the "Stroke Club" and “Birth Right”. Helen was an active member of the Nova Scotia Liberal party for many years (much to Roddie's chagrin!!). Helen was also an avid bowler for many years with the "Air Canada Pionairs" and the "Vegetarian Bowling League". Helen's main activity during her retirement years was caring for her family; especially her grandchildren. Helen's home was always a place of welcome for all who had the pleasure of crossing her threshold. Family and friends were always welcomed with good food, drink and laughter. Helen was also a founding member of the neighbourhood "Knitting Club". How much knitting was actually done is open to question! In the club Helen formed friendships that have lasted for decades; and she cherished those friendships until the end. Helen's passing was greeted with intense sadness but also with a great sense of relief for all her family and friends. The alternative not being what Helen or family, would have wanted for her. Helen lived her life with a quiet elegance; dignity and grace that she maintained up to her passing. Helen's greatest gift is that she made those around her better people simply by being in her presence. She will be sadly missed by all of her family and friends. We will not see many like her. Rest well, Helen. Your work is done. Visitation will be Sunday November 11th from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm at J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive (902) 455-0531. Funeral Service Monday November 12th at 10 am, St. John The Baptist, Purcell’s Cove Rd. Donations in Helen's name may be forwarded to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. To place and online condolence or to view obituary and service details, please visit: www.jasnowfuneralhome.com.

"...Angels beating all their wings in time; with a smile on their faces and a teardrop in their eyes, Thought I heard one sigh for you; come on up now, come on up now, come on up now!!"