TURNER, Virginia Ann
Born on November 22, 1950, in Sheet Harbour, Nova Scotia, peacefully passed away at home with her loving family by her side on March 30, 2024, in Pangnirtung, Nunavut, after a brave battle with Alzheimer's disease. She was preceded in death by her parents, Byron and Camilla (Sullivan) Turner, and stepfather Owen Barnard and her sister Joan.
Devoted to her Catholic faith, Virginia became a member of the Catholic Women’s League of St Patrick’s parish, Halifax and served as its youngest president. Entering the Sisters of Charity of Halifax, she obtained a master’s degree in theology at Atlantic School of Theology and began her social work in Halifax and Cumberland counties. After leaving the Sisterhood she continued her devotion to social and health issues in Ontario and Nunavut. It was in Nunavut where she met her Loving husband Jeffrey Ross Peyton and became the stepmother of 3 children and 3 dogs.
Virginia is survived by her loving husband, Jeffrey Ross Peyton, stepdaughter Patricia Peyton, stepsons Thomas Peyton and James Peyton, and 14 step-grandchildren, her beloved aunt Margaret Sullivan (Marg), as well as numerous Turner and Sullivan cousins.
Virginia's life was marked by dedication and achievement. She pursued her education with passion and determination, earning several degrees that reflected her diverse interests and commitment to learning. She obtained a Master of Arts in Social Welfare Policy from Mcmaster University, School of Social Work in Hamilton, Ontario. Her area of study focused on "The Nature of Social Service Availability to the Needs of the Female Offender." Earlier, Virginia earned a Master of Theological Studies from the Atlantic School of Theology in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with an area of research in "Discipleship: The Call to Freedom and Service."
Prior to her master's degrees, Virginia obtained a Bachelor of Arts from Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with a major in History and minors in Political Science and Psychology. Her academic journey began with a Junior Matriculation from Saint Patrick High School in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Virginia's educational background provided a solid foundation for her professional endeavors. She served as President and CEO of TTA Inc. and Crosshealth and made significant contributions during her tenure with the Government of Nunavut from 2001 to 2013 as a Senior Manager. Prior to that, she held a prominent role with the Ontario Association of Medical Laboratories from 1997 to 2001. Her commitment to public service extended to her role on the Board of Directors of the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of Canada.
In addition to her academic and professional accomplishments, Virginia had a passion for exploring the world. She loved to travel, experiencing new cultures and making lasting memories wherever she went. Virginia was also a devoted pet owner, and she cherished her dogs, Tiga and Ginger, who brought her joy and companionship throughout her life.
The family extends a special thank you to Nurse Katrina, Lucas, and the home care team Leetia, Lorna, and Maata in Pangnirtung, Nunavut, for their exceptional care and support during Virginia's illness in her last days.
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at the wake May 7, 2024, from 9 to 10:15 a.m. funeral mass to follow at 10:30 a.m. The services will be presided by Archbishop Terrence Prendergast at St. Patrick's Church, a Roman Catholic parish church in Halifax, Nova Scotia, located at 2263 Brunswick St, Halifax, NS B3K 2Y9.
A reception to follow in the church hall where family and friends are invited to share memories.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Patrick's Church or a charity of choice in Virginia's memory.
Virginia will be dearly missed by all who knew her, and her legacy of kindness, dedication, and service will forever be cherished.