of Edmonton
It is with shattered hearts and profound sadness that we, the family of Lucina Ann Dithurbide (Walsh), announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, mother-in-law, nanna, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, after a short and courageous battle with cancer.
Lucina was born and raised in Sydney, Nova Scotia, and was the only daughter of the late John and Avril Walsh.
Lucina is survived by her husband of 41 years, Blair; daughters, Glenda (Chris) Townsend and Ashley (Jesse) Hayes; adoring grandchildren, Chael and Dax Townsend, and Violet and Boston Hayes; brothers, Barry, Glenn (Jacqueline) and Tom (Valda); mother-in-law, Lucy Worrell, with whom she shared a mother-daughter bond; sisters-in-law, Linda (Blair), Joann (Corey), Laurie (Jason), Rose (Richard), Sandra (Cyril), Cyndi,
Kim (John), Michelle; brothers-in-law, John (Paula), Michael (Susan), and Eddy; aunts, Emily and Rita; many cousins, nieces and nephews, who she loved dearly; plus many close friends, especially Carolyn March and Janice Edwards - her sisters at heart.
Lucina was preceded in death by her parents; twin brothers, Peter and Paul, at birth; brother John; very special father-in-law, Joseph Worrell; aunts, Delores, Lorraine and Marion; uncles, George, Phillip, Colin and Edward; sister-in-law, Tracy; and father-in-law, Edward (Carol, surviving spouse) Dithurbide.
Lucina dedicated her life to nurturing her family, especially her cherished daughters, Glenda and Ashley. Their unbreakable bond is a testament to the enduring power of a mother's love. She was not only a guiding light to them, but also a source of inspiration, while teaching them the values of kindness, resilience, and unconditional love.
Lucina was fortunate to have two sons, Chris and Jesse, through marriage. She truly thought of them as her own, and considered it an honour and privilege to be their "Ma-in-Law". Together they shared lots of laughter over the last 20 years. She was always so thankful and appreciative to have them by Glenda and Ashley's side.
In addition to Lucina's remarkable relationship with Glenda and Ashley, she was blessed with the joy of being Nanna to her four wonderful grandchildren, Chael, Dax, Violet, and Boston. Her eyes would light up with pride and joy whenever she saw or spoke of them. She showered them with affection, endless bedtime stories, gifts, Nanna surprises, and of course many sleepovers at Nanna and Papa's, making memories that will leave an indelible mark on their hearts forever.
Blair was so much more than Lucina's husband - he was her rock. In the face of life's challenges, they stood together, hand in hand, through thick and thin while finding strength in each other's presence. Their love and devotion were unwavering, and his care for her was endless. Together, they exemplified strength while demonstrating the power of love, even in the midst of sorrow.
Lucina worked in the service industry for her entire career - from Nova Scotia, to Ontario and Alberta, where she made many life-long friends. People were always her passion, and she took great pleasure in meeting and talking with all of those she met along the way.
Lucina enjoyed traveling and experiencing new places including Mexico, Tortola, Jamaica, the Hawaiian Islands, and she especially loved her trips back home to Cape Breton. She had a love for music and enjoyed going to concerts to see her favourite entertainers - from Celine Dion, Elton John, to Michael Bublé. She loved entertaining and decorating, particularly during the holidays. Her home was always filled with laughter,
love, and the irresistible aroma of her delicious and fabulous cooking.
Lucina was a beacon of love, kindness, positivity, wisdom, and strength. She leaves behind a legacy that will forever be etched in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.
Lucina's family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to all of the doctors, nurses, and staff at both the Cross Cancer Clinic and the Tertiary Palliative Care Unit at Grey Nuns Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta for their exceptional care and unwavering compassion. Their kindness provided comfort and support to Lucina and her family, and for that, we are eternally grateful.
Any Memorial Donations made in honour of Lucina can be sent to the Cross Cancer Clinic via their We Cross Cancer Campaign donation page online.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Foster and McGarvey Downtown Funeral Home, in Edmonton. We would like to extend a special thank you to Jenna Barron for her support and guidance.
A Celebration of Life for Lucina will take place at a future date in Sydney, where family and friends will gather together to remember and celebrate her extraordinary gifts.