The family of Frances Olive Chisholm sadly announce her passing at Valley View Villa on November 4, 2021.
Born October 3, 1929 to the late Martha (Grover) and William Fitzgerald, she grew up in a large family on Stellarton’s Red Row.
In 1951, she married Blair Chisholm, who predeceased her in 1995. During their marriage, Frances and Blair lived in many parts of Nova Scotia, mainly Sydney and Little Harbour. Prior to marriage, Frances worked at Metropolitan Store in New Glasgow. After their family was grown, she returned to the Met where she worked with several ladies who became life-long friends. After Blair’s passing, she moved to New Glasgow and later to Valley View Villa.
Frances was a devout Catholic and a member of St John the Baptist CWL and St Vincent de Paul Society. She was a quiet and gentle woman who didn’t often speak up, but when she did, people listened. She was a wonderful cook and baker, a fan of all sports (most particularly the Leafs and Blue Jays) and loved nothing more than having her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and friends around her.
She is survived by children: Sandy, Sydney; Mary MacNevin, Halifax; Anne (Robert Walsh), New Glasgow; and James (Pauline), Sydney; sister-in-law, Donna Fitzgerald; seven grandchildren, eight great-grandsons; many nieces and nephews; cherished friend, Maryanne Muise.
Besides her husband, she was predeceased by daughter, Nancy Phelan (2020); her ten siblings and dear friend, Marion Heighton.
Funeral mass 1pm Saturday in Saint John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church, New Glasgow, with Father Tom MacNeil officiating. A link to a recording of the funeral is below. As per Nova Scotia COVID-19 restrictions, all attendees must wear a mask and show proof of full vaccination and valid ID. Burial will be in Our Lady of Lourdes Cemetery.
Frances’ family extend their sincere gratitude to the staff of Valley View Villa for their tender care of our mother over the past four years.
Donations may be made to Valley View Villa Recreation Fund or St Vincent de Paul Society. Arrangements are under the direction of R.H. Porter Funeral Home, New Glasgow.