ALEXANDER, Janet Mcdonald

Janet Mcdonald Alexander passed away peacefully on January 12, 2021 in Hospice Halifax with her daughters at her side. She was 82. Janet was predeceased by her parents, Lt. Col. Joseph Laurence Black ED, LLD, and Gwendolyn Mcdonald Black LLD, OC; her brother, Frank Black; and her husband, Richard William Alexander. Janet will be greatly missed by her daughters, Laurie Alexander ( James Campbell), Lucy Alexander (Gilberto Gangarossa); brothers, Laurence Black (Janice), John Black (Donna); grandchildren, William and Catherine Campbell; nieces and nephews. Janet grew up in Sackville, N.B., and worked at her father’s general store as a teen. Janet graduated from Mcmaster University (BA, 1959) and Dalhousie University (BED, 1967). She began her career as a high school math teacher, followed by several years at the Canada Revenue Agency. Janet made many lifelong friends and left a lasting impression on those she met. Her quick wit, genuine interest in people, and sharp intellect will be greatly missed. Janet took boundless pride in her daughters and her beloved grandchildren, William and Cate. Janet loved to spend time with them and always looked forward to being with her family at the cottage in Murray Corner. She had lifelong friends along the shore and the local lobster season was at the heart of many summer celebrations. When the first meeting of what would become the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia was held in 1982, the organizers expected perhaps 25 people. Fifty attended. Janet was key member of a small team of dedicated medical professionals and caregivers that established the first Nova Scotia chapter of the Alzheimer Society. They worked hard to bring awareness, information and resources to the Nova Scotia community touched by this devastating disease. Janet served as President of the society and contributed to several committees and task forces. Janet loved the arts and was dedicated to supporting, and enjoying, the creative community. She was a champion of the symphony and classical performances, and was a long-time volunteer with Women for Music. The Women for Music Society encourages and supports classical music. Their popular book sales and book depot are an important fund-raiser for Symphony Nova Scotia and the Nova Scotia Youth Orchestra. Janet loved visual arts and art history, and served a docent at the Nova Scotia Art Gallery. She read voraciously and studied languages (French and Italian). An adventurous traveler, Janet was able to experience many of her national and international bucket list trips taking in incredible performances, galleries, and cultures. The family would like to extend deep gratitude to the Hospice Halifax team for their care and compassion. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a celebration of life will be held at a later date. To place an online condolence please visit: www.jasnowfuneralhome.com