Obituary of Irene Helen Sampson, Glace Bay

Irene Helen Sampson It is with great sadness that we, the family, announce the sudden, but peaceful passing of our mother, Irene, age 94 on Wednesday, May 6th, 2020 at home. Born in Glace Bay, she was the daughter of the late Jack and Annie (Brown) Howley. In her earlier years, she met the love of her life Earl, at a dance in St. Mary’s Hall. After attending many other dances they eventually married. Together for 72 years they had made a loving home for their children, daughter, Michelle and sons, Paddy (Mary Claire), Keith (Shirley) and Greg (Paula). Irene is survived by her sister, Millie Young, sisters in law, Rosie Edmond, Ruby Deveaux, Mary Mercer and brother in law, Clarence Sampson. Also surviving are many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, whom she loved dearly. Irene’s working career began at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Glace Bay, a job she truly enjoyed. She enjoyed skating, dancing, bowling and playing a good game of cards. Irene was known for her strong work ethic, kind heart and a sharp humour with a side of bluntness. A master in the kitchen, a.k.a. “Nanny Yum Yums”, she was best known for her famous apple pie and spaghetti and meatballs. Irene was always there to give you a loving smile, a full belly and a good chuckle. She will always be remembered for making us feel loved, seen and heard. In retirement, her and Earl travelled across Canada and many parts of the USA and simply enjoyed being together. Besides her parents, mom was predeceased by her brothers, Dan and Gerard and sisters, Mary, Anna, Claire and Gloria. A special thank you to Dr. Jamie MacLean and Shauna for their special care and attention over the years, also to the homecare workers who were so kind and compassionate to our mother. Thank you to the many great relatives and friends throughout her life. Donations in memory of Irene can be made to the Cancer or Heart & Stroke Foundation. On line condolences to the family can be expressed at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca A private family service will be held in the V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, Cremation & Reception Center, 16 Reserve Street, Glace Bay. Cremation to follow the service with interment in Forest Haven Cemetery at a later date. Fr. Duaine Devereaux presiding. In Irene’s memory call a loved one, have a coffee, share a joke or story, or simply smell the flowers.