Mary Sue Goulding

Mary Sue Goulding, 79, passed away peacefully in the late evening on Wednesday, July 8, at Valley Regional Hospital in Kentville, Nova Scotia. 

Born in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Mary Sue dedicated her career to nursing, where she met the love of her life, Dr. Gordon Goulding. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. They spent many happy hours sailing on the Northwest Arm in Halifax, taking drives together, watching Formula One races, travelling the world, and enjoying long conversations that were always accompanied by plenty of laughter. 

Mary Sue was predeceased by her beloved husband, Dr. Gordon Goulding, in 2004, and by her cherished grandson, Gordon Arthur Goulding, in 2019. 

Mary Sue is lovingly remembered by her step-sons, Dr. Thomas Goulding and Dr. James Goulding; her grandchildren, Sarah (Andrew) Goulding, Andrew (Paul) Goulding, David (Jessi) Goulding, Nicole (Ben) Goulding, and Michael Goulding; her treasured great-grandchildren, Molly Goulding and Henry Goulding- Xoumanivong; her sisters-in-law, Joy and Una, and her brother-in-law, Franklin, of Newfoundland. She also leaves behind her dear friends, Margaret and Don, and her best friend, Karin, whose friendship enriched her life for many years. 

Mary Sue will be remembered for her intelligence, quick wit, sass, and wonderful sense of humour. She loved her family and friends fiercely and never hesitated to share her thoughts and opinions—whether or not they had been requested. Those who knew her best wouldn't have wanted her any other way. 

A passionate animal lover, Mary Sue shared her home over the years with many beloved dogs, cats, and an ever-present succession of budgies, all affectionately named Sammy. She gave generously of her time as a volunteer with Meals on Wheels, quietly helping others in her community for many years. 

In her quieter moments, Mary Sue could often be found completing a crossword puzzle, watching Downton Abbey, or spending hours on the phone catching up with her best friend, Karin. One of Mary Sue's greatest joys was the time she spent with her granddaughter and dear friend, Sarah. Their visits throughout the years were filled with good meals, stories, laughter, and a shared bottle of Nova 7—simple moments that became treasured memories. 

Mary Sue's family will remember her as a woman who lived life with humour, honesty, and heart. Her warmth, sharp mind, quick wit, and unwavering love for those closest to her will be deeply missed and forever cherished. 

There will be no visitation. A private service will be held at a future date in Grand Falls, Newfoundland, where Mary Sue will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Gordon. 

In honour of Mary Sue's commitment to helping others in her community, donations may be made to the VON Annapolis Valley in support of Meals on Wheels or to a charity of your choice.

Mary Sue's family extends their deepest gratitude to the exceptional nurses and doctors at Valley Regional Hospital and the Valley Hospice for their compassionate care. They also wish to sincerely thank her dear friends, Margaret and Don; her best friend, Karin; and her wonderful neighbour, Matt, whose kindness, friendship, and unwavering support brought comfort to Mary Sue throughout her final months. 

Though Mary Sue is no longer with us, her laughter, sharp wit and unconditional love will remain in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.