Obituary of Patsy Hazel Haughan
On Thursday, March 8, 2018 our mother spread her wings and departed this life to be free. She passed quietly at the Shiretown Nursing Home in Pictou, with her daughters Andrea and Lisa by her side. It was a peaceful end to a long struggle with Alzheimer’s which she lived with for almost twenty years. Even as her mind and body failed she continued to surprise us all with her zest for life and determination to enjoy every moment. Born in Halifax on Septermber 6, 1934 to parents Clyde and Lillian (Bentley) Isner, Patsy was the youngest and last remaining of six siblings, Vera (Bob Ernst), Dorothy (Melford Lavers), Donnie (Elva), Burton and Robie. Patsy lived with her parents in Fairview while she worked at the Fairview Royal Bank and was an active member of the local United Church as a choir member. She was very active in the lives of her nephews and nieces. She met the love of her life Frank and in 1965 they were married and moved to Pictou County where they raised a family and also built their own home in the growing village of Lyons Brook along the beautiful West River. Patsy loved her children more than anything in the world and spent much of her time taking them to ringette, hockey, ball and any other activities they pursued. Both Frank and Patsy were regular attendees at many sports events that their children participated in. Even as she struggled with Alzheimer’s she continued to support and encourage her grandson Briley to pursue his dreams. While Frank worked at what was Scott Paper at the time, Patsy cared for children at her home. She loved these children just as her own and as they grew up the bond remained, and they continued to a part of her life. Patsy had many pursuits over the years. She was active in the church, the local bowling league, attended the local dances, but no matter how busy she always took time to visit friends and neighbours. She and Frank were both talented dancers and she lived by the motto “Dance like no one is watching!”. Patsy loved life and was always there to pickup everyone’s spirits. When you visited Patsy’s house there were two rules, be happy and take your hat off! It was not uncommon for impromptu parties to develop when friends visited and the house was filled with young and old enjoying music, dancing and laughter. Frank and Patsy were truly kindred spirits who gave generously of their time and love. They are both dearly missed. Patsy is survived by her daughters, Wanda Isner, Cambridge, NS; Andrea Haughan (Lloyd McLean), Lisa (Adam Alylward), both of Lyons Brook; and the light of her life, her only grandson, Briley Haughan, Cranbrook, BC. She was predeceased by her beloved son, Barry; her beloved daughter, Krista and her soulmate and husband, Frank. We wish to thank the staff at Shiretown Nursing Home in Pictou, for the wonderful care they provided. Having her stay in the local area that she loved, and near her daughters, ensured a close connection remained to friends and her family. Join us to celebrate Patsy’s life on Sunday, March 11th, visitation from 3:00 - 4:00 PM with service at 4:00 PM from the Lyons Brook United Church. A reception will follow downstairs. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SPCA of Pictou County or the Alzheimer’s Society of Nova Scotia.
