Verna Marie Collier

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, Verna Marie (Sampson) Collier on Feb 23, 2020 at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, An Cala Unit. Born in Louisdale on July 2, 1947, she was the daughter of the late Delta and Wilfred Sampson and moved to Sydney River with her family at the age of five. She was a long-time member of our Lady of Fatima Parish and over the years participated in such ministries as youth choir, CWL, Lay-reader, Liturgical committee and the Ways and Means committee. She retired from the Province of Nova Scotia’s Department of Economic Development in 2001. Verna is survived by her devoted husband, George W. Collier, and her three loving children: Tracie and her husband Paul MacDonald of Howie Center, Nicole and her husband Trevor LeBlanc of Coxheath, and George and his wife Erin Fitzgerald of Ottawa. She was an amazing grandmother and will be sorely missed by her six grandchildren: Trevor, Becca, and Matthew LeBlanc; Sasha and J.C. MacDonald, and Nora Violet Collier. Grandma adored and was so proud of her grandchildren and one of her greatest joys was cheering them on at their numerous activities. As well, she is survived by her two loving brothers: Francis, his wife Joyce and their daughter Lynette, Carl, his fiancé Sadie and his daughter Cora. She cherished her sister-in-law Joanne Poirier (son Christopher and family) and the Bateman family (Wilson, Sharon, Richard, Darren and families). She treasured her long-time friendship with Cynthia and Bryce Reid. Verna was predeceased by her devoted parents; her Mother-in-Law Florence (Evans) Collier Osmond and Father-in-Law George Collier, as well as George Osmond; her sister-in-law and her husband Elsie and Melvin Bateman and her brother-in-law John (Jack) Poirier. Mom most enjoyed giving to her family, particularly filling our freezers with Christmas treats; and times surrounded by family for holiday turkey dinners. We will truly miss these times. As per her request, there will be no visitation. Cremation has taken place, under the care and direction of TW Curry Parkview Chapel. Funeral mass will be at Our Lady of Fatima at 11AM on Wednesday, February 26th, 2020, with Fr. Patrick O’Neill officiating. Reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Hospice Palliative Care Unit of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital or a charity of your choice. Online condolences and memories can be shared with family by visiting www.twurry.com