Obituary of Minnie Viola Smith

SMITH, (Gilkie) Minnie Viola  – 100. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Mother and Nanny.  Born November 9, 1911 in Sambro, she was the daughter of the late Alexander and Annetta Gilkie of Sambro Island.  Minnie was the devoted matriarch of a large family that included 19 grandchildren, 33 great grandchildren and 16 great great-grandchildren.  Minnie was the last of the original keepers family of Sambro Lighthouse, and spoke often of going 'home' to the island. She was a gifted seamstress, and enjoyed making beautiful clothing for her children and grandchildren.  She was also an avid baker and loved treating her family to her pies and bread. She is survived by daughters, Valerie Henneberry (Wolfe Felgemacher), Agnes (Daniel) Henneberry, Richard (Gail) Smith and Larry "Bubby" (Loraine) Smith, son-in-law Bill Henneberry and daughter-in-law Helen Smith.  She was predeceased by her husband, Ralph Smith; daughter, Marion Paul; son, Douglas Smith and son-in-law, Douglas Paul; brothers, Bill, Angus, Albert, Robert, Howard, Edward, Alexander, Charles and sisters, Mabel, Hilda and Lottie.  A special thank you to the staff of Melville Lodge for their kindness to Minnie's family during this difficult time.  Arrangements are under the direction of J. A. Walker Funeral Home (2005) Ltd., 149 Herring Cove Road, Halifax, where visitation will be held on Thursday, February 2nd from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. Funeral service will be held on Friday, February 3rd at 2 PM in St. James United Church, Sambro, Rev. Keltie van Binsbergen officiating.  Family flowers only.  Donations may be made to St. James United Church, Sambro.