Obituary of Sylvia Juliet Power

The death of Sylvia J. (Stuart) Power of Saint John, occurred at the St. John and St. Stephen Church Home on Thursday, March 27, 2008 following a period of failing health. The last years of Sylvia’s life were spent in the company of the caring staff and residents of the Church Home with her family close by. Sylvia was born at St. Andrew’s, New Brunswick, where she continued to summer throughout her lifetime. The last remaining member of her birth family, Sylvia was born the fourth child of five to Emma Isabel and W. Scott Stuart. She was predeceased by brother James (Bussy), sisters Marguerite (Siddie), Mary Miller and Alice. After graduating from the Charlotte County Grammar School, Sylvia entered the Saint John General Hospital School of Nursing, graduating as an RN in 1944. She worked at nursing, primarily at the Saint John General Hospital, the Saint John Regional Hospital, and as an informal neighbourhood nurse, until the age of 69. One of the lasting legacies of her training was a circle of classmates with whom she remained close friends over 60 years. Sylvia was a founding member of the St. Pius X Roman Catholic Parish and its CWL. She presided as organist for 40 years. Her love of music was evident in all she did, from conducting family sing-songs to teaching hymns to the students of St. Pius X - Crescent Valley, and St. Francis - Hazen White schools. Sylvia was an original member of the diocesan interparochial choir, and sang alto with the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception choir. A woman of great faith, Sylvia was known for her practical and accepting way of life, never hesitating to let people know that she had need of their talents, often for the benefit of others. Sylvia was predeceased by her husband Gerald and son James. Her life is remembered and celebrated by those who survive her including: daughters Judy (Ray) Glennie, Marybel Power and son Andy (Kathy). ‘Gram’ was a devoted and much-loved grandmother to Michelle Langley, Michael, Aaron, Jordan and Alison Power; Andrew, Philip and Joseph Glennie; Lisa Power-Vincent (Dan); and great-grandmother to Colby. Resting at Brenan’s Select Community Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424), where visitation will be held on Sunday, March 30, from 2-4 and 7-9 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Pius X Church 316 Somerset Street, on Monday, March 31, at 10 am. Interment will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Remembrances can be made to the St. Pius X Restoration Fund, the St. John and St. Stephen Church Home Van Fund or charity of the donor’s choosing.