Judy Arlene Gillis

It is with the heaviest of hearts and profound sadness we share the passing of Judy Arlene Gillis, a beloved wife, devoted mother, and proud grandmother, who left this world peacefully on April 27th, 2025. Surrounded by her loving family, with hands gently held, she found peace.

Born in Sydney Mines on April 3rd, 1954, Judy was the daughter of the late Sidney and Dora Ella (Butts) Vickers. In her younger years, Mom worked at General Instruments. She met Dad, the love of her life, in 1979, and spent some time working in Dietary at the Northside General Hospital. 

Mom loved to play Yahtzee, spending many Saturday afternoons doing so with her dear friend and sister in law, Susie. Anyone who knew her knew there wasn’t much that could keep her away from a good poker night or a game of Rumoli with the family. Mom loved to travel - Nashville and Las Vegas being among some of her favourite trips. She also loved music, and many a night was spent with family singing and playing guitars either in our homes or around the campfire. Rod Stewart was her favourite, and she was lucky enough to see him twice in concert. We will think of you every time we hear him, Mom. 

Mom faced her long illness with strength, grace, and a quiet courage that inspired everyone around her. She had unwavering determination - never complaining, and always more concerned about the wellbeing of others than her own. In time, her body grew tired, and though her spirit remained unshaken, she gently laid down the fight, not in defeat, but in peace.

Judy is survived by her loving husband of 43 years, Tommy, who cared for her with admirable devotion, her son Tommy (Jennifer), and her daughter Amanda (Brent). Judy’s love and adoration for her children was matched and magnified by the birth of her 3 beautiful grandchildren, Kaci, Emery, and Rowen - the absolute lights of her life. She is also survived by her sister Priscilla (Willie), and her brothers Brian (Mary), Ronnie (Rhonda), Sheldon (Donna), Jimmy (Judy), and Darrel (Nancy). Also left to mourn are her in-laws Billy (Barbara Jean), Judy, Brian (Ellen), Susie (Dannie), Robbie (Margarett), Lori (Marc) and her many nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, Mom was predeceased by her sister, Josephine, her brother, Carl, her infant sister, Charlene, and her father and mother in law, Billy & Kay Gillis. 

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Dr. Beecham, Dr. Saliba, and the dedicated staff at Emergency Care, the Cape Breton Cancer Centre, and the Palliative Care Unit at the CBRH for their exceptional care and compassion.
A special thanks to her sister-in-law, Barbara Jean — our family’s nurse — who was always by her side, offering support, love, and care through the years.
The family is also forever grateful to the many friends who brightened her days with visits, favorite meals, thoughtful treats, and heartfelt gifts. Your kindness and love meant more than words can say.

Cremation has taken place under the care and direction of J. M. Jobes Funeral Home. A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, May 6th, 11 am, at Carman United Church, 1 Clyde Ave, Sydney Mines, and a lunch will follow at the Sydney Mines Legion Branch 8. All who knew her are welcome to attend. 

…”We love you to the moon and back, Mom”
 

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