Obituary of Cecelia Catherine Shalala

With gratitude and appreciation for a life well lived, it is with deep sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of our beautiful Mother, Grandmother, and Great Grandmother, Cecelia Catherine Shalala (Allen) on December 31, 2021, at home, surrounded by her loving family.

Loving Mother to Donna Tanfara, Rev.  Deacon John Shalala (Jean),  Nancy McCarthy (Willard Jenkins) and Robert Shalala (Karen, deceased); loving Grandmother "Site" to Marc Tanfara (Suzanne Pye), Kandace Tanfara, Peter McCarthy (Alice), Jennifer Ryall (Jared) and J.P. Shalala (Deanna); dear Great-Grandmother to Brooke, Nathan, Isabel, Brayden, Sophie, Tristan, Gracie Mae and Angel Abbie;  Special Aunt to many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great-nephews. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Bud Shalala, her parents, brothers and sisters, and great-granddaughter, Abigail Cedine McCarthy.  Mom was the last surviving member of the Shalala  and Allen Families.

Mom was born on September 13, 1922 in Trenton, Nova Scotia to Lebanese immigrant parents, Joseph Allen and Amelia Saap.  In 1941 Cecelia found Bud, the love of her life.  They married in 1946. When Cecelia's children were young, the phrase "stay-at-home-mom" did not exist.  It was usual for women to stay home while their husbands worked;  but even by the standards of the era, Cecelia was an exceptional wife and mother.  She cared deeply for her family, and not out of obligation, but because of who she was.   Mom was immensely proud of her family and leaves nothing behind but beautiful memories. Mom has been our rock and our strength and because of her faith, we know we will be together again some day.  Life will not be the same without her.

The family would like to thank Dr. Elizabeth Keyes, New Brunswick Extra Mural,  Homecare By Design, and, in particular, Linda, Jamie, Carol, Shalamar, Angela, Nancy, Lori and Lynda for their exceptional care.  Our mother truly loved each and every one of you. 

Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan's Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424).  Visitation will take place at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 31 Gondola Point Road, Rothesay, N.B.  on Tuesday, January 4th, 2022 from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m., followed immediately by a Mass of Christian Burial. Due to Covid-19 health measures placed on indoor gatherings by the Government of New Brunswick, all those 12 and older attending the service will be required to show proof of vaccination and a piece of government-issued ID or proof of medical exemption. For those unable to attend, the service will be livestreamed and can be viewed by clicking on the link on Cecelia’s obituary. Interment will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hestia House, Bobby's Hospice or a local food bank. www.Brenans|FH.com.