FRANCIS, Norma Katherine

Norma died peacefully on January 1, 2020, surrounded by the love of her family at Parkstone Enhanced Care, Halifax. She was born on March 29, 1948 in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia and was the daughter of the late William ‘Bill’ and Eunice (Keay) Francis. Norma completed her early education in Stellarton, and graduated in Nursing from the Halifax Infirmary and later Dalhousie University with a B.Sc. in Nursing. She moved to Vancouver in 1973 to follow her career, where she worked as a nursing instructor at the University of British Colombia, Nurse Manager at Vancouver General and finally as administrator of long-term nursing facilities. She led a busy life but still found time to pursue her love of skiing and sailing in BC. Despite the distance, she always remained close to family, returning home to Nova Scotia at least twice a year, particularly at Christmas and in the summer where she loved to spend time beside the ocean. Being an ardent card player, Norma spent many happy hours playing her favourite card games with family members and friends. After her sad diagnosis of semantic dementia Norma still handled herself with grace, determination and dignity. She will be sadly missed by her siblings, Dr. Robert Francis, Toronto, Ken (Carol) Francis, Stellarton, Owen Francis, New Glasgow, Mary (Peter) Bernier, Halifax, Marjorie Rose, Halifax, Eileen (David) English, Sutherland’s River; and many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly. She was predeceased by her sister-in-law, Sharon Francis; brother-in-law, Lloyd Rose, and nephew and godson, Mark Rose. Many friends in Vancouver, including Jim MacPherson, will fondly remember her. A special thank you goes out to the staff at Parkstone, especially the staff of Seton Way, for their excellent care. Visitation will be held January 10 from 6 – 8 at H.C. MacQuarrie Funeral Home in Stellarton. Funeral service will be held January 11 at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Stellarton with Father Barrett Clare-Johnson officiating. Reception will follow at the Sister Catherine Steele Center. Family flowers only please. Donations, in Norma’s memory, may be made to a charity established by her brother Bob in aid of Alzheimer’s research, the Sharon Francis Institute for Regenerative Medicine. This donation may be made at www.sfirm.ca.