Rose Marie Johnston

Rose Marie Johnston (Harrietha)

August 23, 1939 - July 30th, 2023

It is with deep sadness that the children of Rose Johnston announce her passing after her brave battle with a lengthy illness on July 30th, 2023.

As we cope with the loss of our cherished mother, we find comfort in joking that when Da spotted Ma coming through the gates of Heaven, he yelled, “Turn out the lights and hide, b’y…here comes Jake!”  

Rose was born August 23, 1939, to the late Joseph and Dora (Leblanc) Harrietha. Rose was a proud Ocean Streeter who often spoke wistfully of warm summer days with her siblings swimming at her beloved Perch Rock. 

As a young woman, she left the island for adventures in Ontario. She wasn’t interested in settling down here at home and wasn't looking for a man at all. Then during a visit at home, along came Eldon, the love of her life. Rose said he was a handsome devil who swept her off her feet with romantic nights twirling her around the dance floor. The two soon married, spending 49 wonderful years together. The pair were inseparable, balancing each other out perfectly. He was a joker, the life of the party, his antics always making her laugh. Rose was quiet, a little more reserved, and Eldon’s biggest fan. They built a beautiful family together. 

She was a devoted stay-at-home mom, the house always bustling with her kids and their friends. Her door was always open for neighbors who came for conversation, endless cups of hot tea, and warm bowls of delicious hamburger soup. Eldon often joked that their home was like a plane crash with bodies everywhere. 

Rose loved long drives in the car, her Saturday shopping trips, and going out for a good meal. But most of all, she enjoyed being surrounded by her family and friends, whom she loved beyond measure. She was well known for her love for her fur babies. The two she adored most were the cats she left behind, her sweet Ming and Tommy. 

Rose will live on in the hearts of her children: Paul (BettyLynn), Ann-Marie, Joyce (Mike), David (Jennifer), and her youngest, Troy, who was the apple of her eye and devoted caregiver. 

Her grandchildren: Darren, Brandon, Matthew, Tiffany (Cory), Andrew, Hannah, Noah, Jacob, Kassy, Sam, Dylan, ClaraLynn, and Colton. 

Her great-grandchildren: Colby, Ben, Reese, Rogan, Brooklyn, Zack, Luke, Adora, Eden, Alexander, Jace,  Aria, Rose and Jackson 

Besides her parents and husband, Rose was predeceased by brothers Leonard, Clarence, Adrian, and sister Carlotta. Also, by her treasured granddaughter, Tara Lee, who Rose said came to sit on the end of her hospital bed. We know she was waiting with open arms for her Nanny. 

Rose is survived by her sister Violet (Babes), her sisters-in-law, Joyce Harrietha, Sharon Harrietha, Betty Johnston, and brothers-in-law, Jerry Flowers and Kenny (Janet) Johnston. She also leaves behind many much-loved nieces and nephews. 

We would like to thank EHS, Dr. Ignacio, and the staff of 4 West at the Northside General for the loving care you gave our mother. Also, Terry and Diane, who provided lots of laughter during the many hours visiting Mom. And to Anne MacKinnon (Big Anne), For all your love and support throughout the years; you were her one constant.

Visitation for Rose will be held on August 19th at 1 pm, with a service to follow at 2 pm at J.M. Jobes Funeral Home, 635 Main Street, Sydney Mines.  Burial to follow at Saint Joseph's Cemetery, 216 York Street, Sydney Mines. 

Give Da a big hug for us, and keep the pot of tea warm until we see you again, Ma. We love you.