Bernice Devoe

With heavy hearts, the family of Bernice announce her peaceful passing on Thursday, March 12, 2026, after a brief hospitalization. Though we are heartbroken, we find comfort in knowing her tiny body is now free from pain and finally at rest. Bernice slipped quietly away in her sleep, after a life that was full of strength, laughter, honesty, and love. She was never shy about sharing exactly what was on her mind—often with a laugh, a smile, or a playful roll of her eyes.

Born on August 1, 1937, in Bras d’Or, Bernice was the beloved daughter of the late Bob and Ethel Slade. From an early age she developed the strong, determined spirit that would carry her through life and shape the loving family she built around her.

Bernice was a devoted and fiercely loving mother who raised her children single-handedly through many difficult times. Through hard work, determination, and sacrifice, she gave them every opportunity she could, and she can be credited with much of the success they enjoy today. Her strength and resilience were an example to all who knew her.

She worked for many years at both the Alder Point and North Sydney fish plants, where she formed countless friendships that lasted a lifetime. Bernice was proud of the work she did and the life she built for her family. One story she loved to tell was about a Christmas season when she worked long days at the plant and baked fruitcakes every night afterward, managing to save an extra $1,000 so her children could have a special Christmas. Moments like that perfectly captured the kind of mother she was.

Christmas was always one of Bernice’s favourite times of the year. She loved decorating her home and especially her Christmas tree, filling the house with warmth, lights, and tradition. “Bernice’s nieces” made it an annual tradition to come help her decorate each season, something she looked forward to every year.

Bernice will be deeply missed for her fiery personality, her honest—and often hilarious—advice, and the affection she so freely gave to those she loved. She always had hugs and kisses ready for family and friends. She also had a competitive streak, especially when it came to cards, and she cherished her Tuesday night card games with “Bernice’s nieces,” where laughter and friendly rivalry were always part of the evening.

Her incredible baking will also be dearly missed. Bernice was known for her delicious pies, fruitcakes, homemade bread, rolls, tea biscuits, and of course her spaghetti and meatballs and famous potato salad. Her kitchen was a place where family gathered, stories were shared, and no one ever left hungry. The list of her specialties truly goes on.

In quieter moments, Bernice loved to read, especially novels by Danielle Steele. As a young girl, she once dreamed of becoming a writer herself, a dream that reflected her imagination and love for storytelling.

Bernice leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory: her daughter Cindy (Jim) Cook; her sons Trevor Devoe (Debbie) and Stephen Devoe (Barbara), all residing in Ontario; her grandchildren Devon, Colten, Brysen, James, Josh, and Sarah; and nine great-grandchildren who brought her great joy. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, her brother Sheldon Slade (Sheila), and her beloved sister Carolyn Farrell.

Besides her parents, Bernice was predeceased by her son Robert Devoe; her brothers George (Marg), Rayfield (Beatrice), Major, Lawrence (Sydney Mae), and Elijah (Fran); her sisters Molly (Gerry Arsenault), Margaret (Charlie Cameron), Florence (Lawrence Stevens), Ethel Mae (Carmen Demarco), and Ruby (Frankie MacDougall); and her brother-in-law John Farrell.

A very special mention goes to “Bernice’s nieces”—Nancy, Dolly, Brenda, Roberta, and Linda—for the loving care, companionship, and kindness they provided over the years. Their devotion meant the world to her and to the entire family.

The family would also like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Northside Homemakers for their kindness and compassion, the VON, Dr. Eugene Ignacio, the staff of 4 West at the Northside General Hospital, Amanda Chapman and Dr. Brown, and Lynda Bork of Capital Drugs for their care and support. The family is also grateful to the staff and family of JM Jobes Funeral Home for their guidance and compassion during this difficult time.

A visitation will be held from 10:00–11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at JM Jobes Funeral Home, with a funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will take place after the service at Holy Family Parish Hall. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Bernice’s life.

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