Obituary of Nellie Hearns

HEARNS: Nellie (Nanny)

A resident of Ridgetown, passed away peacefully in the arms of her great-granddaughter Hannah on March 31, 2018 at Riverview Gardens at the age of 97.

Born in Arlseford, England, daughter of the late William John and Emily (Haynes) Hedger. Beloved wife of the late Keith (Toad) Hearns (2003).

Dear mother of Celia and her husband Tony Collins of Chatham; Lorraine Clark and her husband Bob of Highgate; Karen Hearns of Chatham; Leonard Hearns and his wife Lea of New Brunswick; Charles Hearns and his wife Sandra of Trenton and Brian Hearns and his friend Pat of Ridgetown. Predeceased by her son Ken (2018) and cherished grandson Jeffrey (2004). Mother-in-law to Mary Hearns.

Grandmother of 11 grandchildren and great-grandmother of 14. Special Nanny to Hannah, Zoe and Logan.

Predeceased by her three sisters and two brothers, all of England.

Also survived by many nieces and nephews in England.

One of Nanny's favourite things to do was to attend her weekly luncheon with the War Brides.

She loved to garden, knit and volunteer at the Public General Hospital and the Ridgetown Public School. She was the last surviving 'Old Vet' at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #335, Highgate, and a member of the former Disciples of Christ Church, Ridgetown.

'Nellie served her community during her lifetime'.

We all have many wonderful memories of Mom/Nanny. Dad/Banky and Mom were hard workers, but always enjoyed life. This love of life was contagious to those who were fortunate enough to spend time in their presence.

Family will receive friends at the McKinlay Funeral Home, 76 Main Street East, Ridgetown on Wednesday, April 4, 2018 from 6:00 - 9:00 pm. A Legion Service will be held on Wednesday at 7:00 pm. A Funeral Service will be held at the Funeral Home on at 11:30am on Thursday, April 5, 2018 with Rev. James Tiffin officiating. Cremation to follow with a private family interment to be held at Greenwood Cemetery at a later date.

Donations to Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation, Riverview Gardens Resident's Council or the War Amps would be appreciated.

McKinlay Funeral Home, 76 Main Street East, Ridgetown, 519-674-3141