Obituary of Brittany Jordan Panisiak

We the family of Brittany Panisiak are sad to announce her sudden passing on Sunday March 15th 2026 in New Glasgow.  Born August 19th 1996 in Calgary Alberta, at Rocky View General, she was the daughter of Anita Fraser and Vincent Atwater, (biological father Gregory Panisiak). 

Brittany was raised in Pictou County Nova Scotia. She attended Salts Springs Elementary, West Pictou Consolidated School, Northumberland Regional High School, and NSCC. Brittany had an outgoing personality, always curious and always wanting to keep busy. At a young age Brittany was involved in many different sports and organized activities including ballet, softball and 4-H to name a few. She had a great love for animals and had many pets growing up, she loved to draw and was very artistic. 

Brittany loved make up and fashion. Early on she modelled at several fashion shows at malls around the province. And was even featured in a magazine, and travelled to Montreal for modelling competitions. On March breaks and summer vacations she loved to travel to water parks, zoos, museums and camping with her family.

At the age of 19, Brittany became a mother to Isabella Faith Panisiak. Isabella was the centre of her world and she loved her dearly. Brittany was a beautiful soul whose smile could light an entire room and make anyone happy with her outgoing personality. She always gave from the heart, had a good sense of humour wanting to share a laugh. Mostly she loved life. She wanted to live and be loved by all.

Brittany struggled with mental illness, which led to addictions. She fought a courageous battle with support of her family and especially her mother who had unconditional love for her no matter what. Brittany had spent a lot of time in different hospitals and support groups. Unfortunately she never received the proper treatment she needed. In many ways the system failed her, we hope to share her story soon and bring more awareness to mental health and addiction. Brittany was a beautiful, kind hearted soul.

She leaves behind her daughter Isabella Panisiak, her siblings Roland Atwater and Serenah Atwater. Her parents Anita Fraser and Vincent Atwater, her grandmother Margaret Fraser, and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Brittany will be dearly missed by all who knew her, she was a true inspiration of courage and strength with her struggles. In our hearts always.

Funeral arrangements entrusted with Eagles Funeral Home, Westville. Visitation will take place Tuesday March 24th from 12-2pm followed by funeral. Graveside burial will take place at St. Andrews Cemetery (Gairloch) at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a GoFundMe which will be posted.

~This world was never meant for one as beautiful as you~ Don McLean