REYNO, Rita "Charlene"

Rita Charlene Reyno passed away peacefully in the VG Site, QEII, on October 19, 2021. Charlene, as she was known by friends, was born in Antigonish to parents John and Sally (Carrigan) Macdonald. From the outset Charlene’s passion and purpose in life was her family. Due to the untimely death of her father Charlene was thrust into the role of supporting parent at an early age. Fiercely proud and protective of those within her family circle she helped her mother and brothers navigate the challenges faced by a single parent family in that time. At 15 years of age Charlene met Aubrey and the two immediately fell in love. The two were inseparable and Aubrey became more than the “brother-in-law” with the rest of the Macdonald boys and became truly their brother. Over the years Charlene had two boys (Sean and Matthew) quickly followed by her two girls (Jennifer and Amanda). Charlene worked during the days as Aubrey worked nights so that there was always a parent home to take care of their children. Over the years her family circle grew as her brothers and sisters had children of their own. With this growing family that fierce family loyalty and pride was not diminished or spread thin, it grew and became even stronger as can be attested by anyone who had cause to run afoul of any family member. Charlene’s joy in life came from this family, her favourite moments where spent on family camping trips to Smileys or Graves Island or even poolside in her brother Ian’s backyard. The trip with her family to Cuba always put a smile on her face at the remembered good times that were had. As Charlene’s children grew, she had even more people to love and care for with her six grandchildren. (Courtney, Grace, Sam, Layton, Mia and Jax).charlene was diagnosed with cancer in 2006 and she fought an unbelievable fight, characteristic of her in every way. Charlene’s answer to the question “how are you doing” was ultimately met with a smiling “great! Just great” during even the hardest of times for her. Her tenacity and courage in the face of her adversities during these years were an inspiration to everyone who knew her. For more photos, please see: www.harboursidecremation.ca

You will be sorely missed, your laugh, your advice, your love.