Lorna May (MacMahon) Gillis

Lorna May (MacMahon) Gillis - Born in Wolfville, February 21, 1935, daughter of Reuben and Marion (Bishop) MacMahon, died peacefully at home in Berwick on May 9, 2022. Survived by husband, Lloyd Botsford Gillis; children, Lisa, Peter (Brogan), Chris (Laurie) and Andrew (Katie); brother, Bob MacMahon; grandchildren, Sarah (Steve), Zoë, Molly, Benny, Sacha, Lora; great-granddaughter, Lena; and numerous nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her parents, granddaughter, Maddie; and brothers, Malcolm and Donald. A 1957 graduate of Mount Allison University, she maintained a lifelong relationship with the "Scraggs", the special friends and roommates with whom she shared her post-secondary learning. Later, these wonderful women reunited through yearly gatherings. The value of their connection and love was never underestimated. A gifted educator to students on many levels, she sparked imaginations wherever she taught. A playful and easy friend to her grandchildren, her love of fun brought the world to life. Her curiosity about the world shone through in her love of wonder, words, poetry, people and places. Lorna loved her family, leading us through good and hard times with Lloyd at her side, sharing her deep connection to the natural world and reminding everyone of the power of positivity and gratitude in life. She loved camping trips and spontaneous adventures, a bad pun and a good bargain. She could barter down a 25-cent yard sale item, and was proud of it. She did her best to keep Lloyd "light and lively" for 62 years. Together, they showed us the way. The family would like to thank the palliative care team and all the caregivers, both private and public, who helped us honour mom’s wish to remain at home during her illness. Private family memorial to follow. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Nova Scotia Nature Trust or Victorian Order of Nurses Nova Scotia.