Ida Woo Shue (nee Jewell), 73, passed away at home on Tuesday, August 6, 2019. The daughter of Normintreal (Minty) and Charles (Ian) Paris, Ida was born in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, but Halifax was where she made her home and raised her family.
Ida was a woman of many talents and held a variety of positions over her lifetime. She began as a hairdresser and would over time add crossing guard, personal careworker, and pharmacy technician to her list of titles. But the titles of which she was most proud were mother and grandmother.
Ida could often be seen walking or busing from point to point, sharing a friendly hello with those she met along the way. When people offered her a drive, she’d politely decline because what people saw as an inconvenience, she saw as an opportunity for exercise and to admire things along the way.
Ida was known for her extensive network of friends and acquaintances. Anyone accompanying her on a walk or errand had to be prepared to stop several times for conversations with friends that she encountered along the way. They might be people she known growing up, former colleagues, or the grown-up versions of kids she’d gotten to know as a crossing guard.
Ida will also be remembered for her love of laughter and music. She had a mischievous streak and could be reduced to tears of laughter with yet another retelling of the old family stories. During a game of dominoes, both Ida and her opponents would often end up laughing as Ida’s competitive spirit inspired playful and wonderfully creative ways to cheat. Sunday afternoons were often spent listening to music from the Gaither Gospel Hour on YouTube and discussing cast members past and present. Spontaneous family singalongs were also a favourite way to pass the time.
Family was extremely important to Ida. When the family gathered, she’d ensure everyone was fed and she’d reflect on the good time being had and on the importance of being together. Achievements big and small earned her praise and the opportunity to see her chest lifted with her pride in you. Threats to her family brought out her protective side and woe betide anyone who hurt those she loved. Any time you expressed a need for comfort and encouragement, she would embrace you in a big hug. And when it was time to leave her house, she always walked you to the door, told you she loved you, and stood in the doorway for a final wave until you were out of view.
Ida’s life was also characterized by her deep faith and great love of God. Each day, she dedicated time to reading scripture, prayer, and listening to her favourite religious programs. When she sang hymns – especially the older hymns – she didn’t simply sing. She expressed her faith through the lyrics.
Ida is survived by her daughters, Kelli, Teresa, and Felicia “Lisa” (Scott) Woo Shue; her brothers Charles (Joanne) Paris, Etobicoke, ON, and Dale (Sandy) Paris, New Glasgow, NS; and her beloved grandsons. She was predeceased by her parents; husband Arnold; and brother Reuben.
Visitation will take place on Monday, August 12 from 7-9 p.m. at Cruikshank’s Funeral Home, 2666 Windsor Street, Halifax. Funeral service will be held on Tuesday, August 13 at 11:00 a.m. at West End Baptist Church, Preston Street, Halifax, NS. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to West End Baptist Church or the Heart & Stroke Foundation.
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