Obituary of Bernie Farrell

Edward Bernard “Bernie” Farrell, 92, Shiretown Nursing Home, Pictou, formerly of Stellarton and Pine Tree, passed away peacefully, Tuesday, October 8, 2024, with his wife and son by his side.

Born in Pine Tree, Bernie was the son of the late George Patrick and Margaret Mary (Phalen) Farrell.  Prior to retirement, Bernie was a maintenance employee with the Chignecto Central Regional School Board at the former East Pictou Rural High School, where he drove a school bus for many years. He was a member of the former St. Ann’s Roman Catholic Church, Thorburn and attended Our Lady of Lourdes Roman Catholic Church, Stellarton. Bernie enjoyed listening to country music, fishing and spending time at their cottage in Lochaber with his wife, Shirley and brother-in-law George.  He enjoyed tinkering and possessed a “laid back” sense of humour. Bernie was an avid sports fan and attended many local hockey and ball games throughout the years. He was a devoted Toronto Maple Leafs and Blue Jays fan. For Bernie, “Life has changed; not ended!”

Bernie leaves behind his loving wife, Shirley,  daughter, Debbie Wood, Stellarton; son, Doug (Cindy) Farrell, Douglas, N.B.; granddaughters, Kara Wood (Allan Bezanson), New Glasgow; Mandy (Robert) Little, Stellarton; Payton Farrell, Douglas; grandson, Cameron Farrell, Douglas; great-grandchildren, Veronica, Elliott, Cohen, Isla, Ellie Shae; sister, Helen (Don) MacDonald, Antigonish; sister-in-law, Jane Farrell (Gerry), Churchville; brothers-in-law, Harold MacDonnell, New Glasgow; Bill Dewtie, Riverton; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by sisters, Marie Dewtie, Isabel Winfrey and Beatrice MacDonnell; brothers, Francis, Doug, Gerald and Johnny Farrell; sisters-in-law, Vie Farrell, Theresa Farrell and Joan Farrell. 

In honour of Bernie’s wishes, his family will celebrate his life privately. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Nova Scotia, the Canadian Diabetes Association, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Bernie’s family wish to thank the Shiretown Nursing Home staff for providing “above and beyond” care, and making Bernie feel like family. They appreciate the kindness and compassion shown to him and his loved ones.