Obituary of Reta Smith

Smith - Reta May, age 96, formerly of Walton, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2015 at her home in Dykeland Lodge, Windsor, with her family and friends at her side. Born on November 17, 1918, she was a daughter of the late Henry and Gertrude (Lake) Burgess. Reta was the last surviving member of her immediate family. She was a member of the Grace United Church in Walton and of the Rebekkah Lodge. Reta's family was the center of her life. Her home was always a welcoming place to visit, share a cup of tea and some comforting conversation. Reta loved music, singing, and children and was known for her wonderful cooking. Reta will be remembered as a loving mother by her surviving children, Burpee (Evelyn), Walton; Elizabeth Sexton, Union Corner; Hazel (Warren) Dill, Upper Burlington; Alice Gould, Walton; and Fred (Marge), Lake George, Kings Co. ; a kind and gentle "Nanny" by her 15 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and 9 great-great-grandchildren; a special aunt by many nieces and nephews; and a caring friend. Reta was also predeceased by her husband, Lawrence; a daughter, Janey Paulette, in infancy; a son, Eldridge (Eldie) Burgess; her sisters, Della White, Florence White, and Nora White; her brothers, Addison, Frederick (Ted), and George; sons-in-law Thomas Gould, William Sexton, and Robert Hazel; and daughter-in-law Maureen Burgess; grandson John and great grandson, Sean. The family would like to thank the staff of the Dykeland Lodge for the wonderful care they gave to Reta and for their compassion and understanding especially during the past week. Visitation will be held on Friday, June 19 from 7-9pm at the J. Wilson Allen Funeral Home in Summerville, with a funeral service on Saturday, June 20 at 1pm in the Grace United Church, Walton, Rev. Debra Mosher officiating, with a private family committal at the Grace United Church Cemetery immediately following the service. The family invites you to join them to share memories, stories and refreshments at the Grace United Church Hall. Donations in memory of Reta may be made to the Grace United Church or Cemetery, or to the Dykeland Lodge. Arrangements have been entrusted to the compassionate care of the J. Wilson Allen Funeral Home, Summerville, N.S. Ph 902-633-2431 or please visit our web site at www.allenfh.ca to sign the guest book or send private condolences.