LYONS BROOK – Florence Catherine McKearney, 69, Lyons Brook, passed away Sunday, March 29, 2020 in the Aberdeen Hospital, New Glasgow, surrounded by the love of her family. Born in New Glasgow, she was the daughter of the late Leo Joseph and Mary Jeanette (MacKinnon) Surette. Prior to retirement, Florence was employed with Bell Aliant, the former Maritime Tel & Tel, for 30 years. In earlier years, she was private secretary to Harry Sutherland, editor of The Evening News. Florence was a passionate member of several spiritual drumming groups. She also embraced the joys of painting and gardening. Florence was a “master” sewer of hand stitched materials. She shared a lifetime love of dancing with her husband, Ed. Florence cherished the group of friends she obtained through playing cards throughout the county. She was a “country girl” at heart, always keeping a feline friend close. In recent years, Florence and Ed have greatly appreciated the friendship of Betty Lou and Mary. Florence was the nurturing matriarch of her family; her love and devotion will never be forgotten. Surviving are her husband of 44 years, James Edward “Ed” McKearney; daughter, Jolene (Aaron) Russell, New Ross; granddaughter, Lila Russell; brother, Leo Charles Surette, New Glasgow; nephew, Justin Surette, Guysborough; aunts, Betty Smith, Digby; Mary Anne “Anna” LeBlanc, Yarmouth; uncle, Stanley Surette, Prescott, Ont.; many cousins. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by aunts, Marie Surette and Florence Thomas; uncles, Fred Smith, Nelson LeBlanc, Alfred J., Georgie, Donald and Charlie Surette. A graveside service will be held in Gladstone Cemetery, Four Mile Brook at a later date.