Obituary of Sheila Marie MacRae (Brown)

76 of Halifax, peacefully passed away Tuesday March 15, 2016 at the Northwood Bedford (Ivany Place). Born in Florence, Cape Breton, she was the daughter of the late Alexander and Jenny (Greenwell) Brown. In her youth she learned to play a lap steel guitar, walked everywhere and in between, loved to dance and found a passion for skating. Sheila was a life long learner.  She became an elementary school teacher at the age of 18 and spoke fondly of the 15 years she spent in the classroom. Throughout her life, she was a passionate volunteer, and was most proud of her 10 years serving graciously as a palliative care volunteer at the Veteran’s Memorial Building in her retirement years.  She was a dear friend to many and always found solitude in the comfort of a good piece of literature. Not only was Sheila always available with a listening ear, she found delight in sharing a good story or hearty laugh, but never could remember the punch line to a joke. She is survived by Harold her husband of 50 years, her daughter, Dana (Jeff Mills), and son, Glen.  Her grandchildren Kyla, Nathan and Sophie will dearly miss their Nannie. Sheila is also survived by sisters, Esther (Harold) Briers and Shirley (Russell) Gouthro, sister-in-law Margaret Brown, and many loving nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by sister, Christine (Bert) Beetle and brother, Alex Brown. Arrangements are under the care of J. Albert walker Funeral Home (2005) Ltd. A celebration of life will be held at Bethany United Church, 7171 Clinton Avenue, Halifax on Saturday, March 19, 2016 at 2 pm, with a reception to follow.  Many thanks to the many health care professionals who have supported Sheila and her family over the years, in particular most recently, those who provided care and compassion at Ivany Place. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choosing.