Obituary of Kathleen Pearl Fortune

“In a dark world, be the Light.”

Matthew 5:14

 

It is with heavy, but grateful hearts that we announce the passing of Kathleen Pearl “Kay” (Shrum) Fortune, age 84, of Westville, NS. Kay passed peacefully into Heaven on Saturday, August 1, 2026, after many years in the loving care of the staff at Valley View Villa.

Kay spent the day of her passing and several days prior, in the Aberdeen Hospital surrounded by much love, laughter, and precious shared memories, in a room full of family and her dearest of friends. She took in peacefully and lovingly, the familiar sounds of “HOME” again that she loved so much.

 

Born March 30, 1942, in New Glasgow, Kay lived a life marked by quiet strength, unwavering love, kindness, generosity, and laughter. In 1963, she married the love of her life, Enoch, and together they raised five sons: John, Tony, Paul, Dan, and Mark. Her family was her greatest pride and deepest joy, and she treasured every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

 

Many will remember Kay’s warm smile during her 16 years at the Westville Medical Clinic. She never met a stranger and had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcome, comforted, and cared for.

 

Kay’s home was never defined by its size, but by the love within it. Its door was always open, there was always a meal to share, a deck of cards on the table, children laughing in the yard, and room for anyone who needed kindness, encouragement, and acceptance. She believed whatever you had—whether much or little—was meant to be shared. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, generosity, and a reminder that the brightest lights are often found in the simplest acts of love.

 

She also cherished evenings spent playing cards, nights at Bingo, and the lifelong friendships that filled those moments with laughter. Whether with family or friends, Kay had a way of making ordinary moments become treasured memories.

 

Kay was predeceased by her beloved husband, Enoch. She is lovingly remembered by her sons John (Chrissy), Tony (Michelle), Paul, Dan (Tammy), and Mark (Tammy); her grandchildren Katie (Tyler) MacIntosh, Reilly and Luke Fortune, Rorey and Aiden Fortune, Seth MacLean, Cassidy (Zach) Gillin, Taylor, Ben, Noah Fortune, and Maddie Fortune; her great-grandchildren Lydia and London Gillin and Piper MacIntosh; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

 

Visitation will be held at Eagles Funeral Home, Westville, on Sunday, August 9, from 2–4 p.m. and 6–8 p.m. A memorial service will also be held at Eagles Funeral Home on Monday, August 10, at 11:00 a.m.

 

In lieu of flowers or donations, the family asks that you honor Kay by sharing her light with others. Make someone laugh, share a meal, spend time with a child, lend a helping hand, or gather with loved ones for a game of cards or a night of Bingo.

 

“In a dark world, be the Light.”

 

Well done, Kay. Your light will continue to shine through the countless lives you touched. You will be forever loved and never forgotten. Until we meet again… catch that bus to endless Bingo.