Obituary of Karen (Gilmet)Kennedy, Glace Bay

Karen (Gilmet) Kennedy

Glace Bay

It is with profound sadness that we the family announce the sudden passing of our beloved mother, Karen Ann Kennedy, age 73 on Monday, January 1st, 2018 in Glace Bay.  She was a most beautiful wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, partner and beautiful kind soul.

Born in Glace Bay, Karen was the daughter of the late Samuel and Olga (Kelloway) Gilmet. Karen was known for being a gentle kind person, she raised many children in her life before and after having children of her own. She welcomed everyone into her home and was the matriarch to her siblings who loved her like a mother.

Karen loved to dance and sing and had many adventures travelling to see her children all over the country. Her sense of humour was infectious and laughter was always ready to spill out of her at any time. She didn’t seek happiness, she lived happiness in the simple things of life.

Karen is survived by her partner, Peter McNeil, and his loving family. She will be sadly missed by her son, Shannon (Lynn) Kennedy, granddaughter, Lyssa Bishop (Dewayne), two daughters, Kimberley Follette (David), grandchildren, Serina (Kelsey), Aaron, Isaiah and Zachary, great grandchildren, Sierra and Kai, her youngest daughter, Karen Beckingham (Chris), grandchildren, Emma and Noah.

Also surviving are Karen’s sister, Pam Perry who was like a daughter to her, and grandchildren, Sarah McLeod (Joey) and Garrett Perry, sister, Helen Toomey (Gerald), brothers, Sam Gilmet (Wendy) and Bobby Gilmet, numerous nieces and nephews, special friends, sisters in law, uncles and aunts whom adored her.

Karen was predeceased by her husband, Sherwin Kennedy.

There will be no visitation. Cremation has taken place under the direction of V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, 16 Reserve Street, Glace Bay. The funeral mass will be celebrated by Fr. Norman MacPhee on Tuesday, January 9, 2018 at 11 a.m. in Holy Cross Church followed by a reception in the parish hall. Private interment in Greenwood Cemetery.

Special thanks to her care workers and VON who made her so happy with their visits and compassion. In lieu of flowers and in honour of her giving spirit please make a monetary donation to the Glace Bay Food Bank.     

On line condolences to the family can be expressed at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca