Obituary of Lena Helen Malay

With deep sadness our family announces the death of our mother, Lena Helen Malay, age 92, of Sheet Harbour. She passed away peacefully on June 28, 2021 at the Aberdeen Hospital in New Glasgow. Born in Sheet Harbour October 6, 1928, she was the daughter of the late Laune and Elsie (Cameron) Smith. Mom was an independent woman who took advantage of life’s choices. She took pride in her family and was a ready Nan when a grandchild needed someone to catch a ball or watch a dive. Mom was a willing participant and a good sport, always ready to challenge her children and grandchildren to a round of cribbage where she’d put them to the test. Lena is survived by her sons, Robert(Avril) Coffinscroft, Stephen(Carla) Harmony Mills, David(Crystal) St Albert AB, grandchildren Kenan(Stephanie), Brendan(Vanessa) Glynis(Ludovico), Nathan(Jocelyn), Evan(Jennifer), Laura(Dylan), Tara(Riley), Cameron(Jessica), Carson, and Christian; great grandchildren Malakai, Noella, Zack, Ryland, James, Grady and Charlotte; sister Joyce Irvin(Halifax), special niece Ada Martell(Halifax) and many other nieces and nephews. Predeceased by husband Laurie. Once their own children had fledged, Mom and Dad developed the call of the open road. They spent a number of years RV-ing with travel companions Tina and Brent MacDonald, including one memorable Airstream trip up the Alaska Highway. Mom and her lifelong friend, next door neighbour and travel partner, Ruth Rutledge, enjoyed shopping trips, overnight stays and even a bus tour to Nashville and the Grand Ole Opry. In her senior years, Mom was a square dancer handing off a do-se-do across the dance floor. She was also a bowler for 40 years and sported an average of a 100 points per string. No gutter balls there. Within her church community Mom was an active member of St James United in Sheet Harbour, the UCW and volunteered for many church events and groups. Many thanks to her church family and her community of neighbours who were a great support to Mom over many years. The family would like to extend special gratitude to Nora, Fraser, Glen, Marie, Wayne, Janice, Muriel, Cindy, Kenny and to all who made it easier for Mom to stay in her home. Donations in Lena’s memory may be made to St James United Church Sheet Harbour C/O Denise MacDonald 48 Highway 224 Sheet Harbour N.S B0J 3B0 or to the Sheet Harbour Ground Search and Rescue PO Box 171 Sheet Harbour N.S. B0J 3B0. A graveside service will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.crowellsfuneralhome.ca