Obituary of Gerna Marjorie McCullum
It is with great sadness that the family of Gerna Marjorie McCullum announce her passing, which occurred on Saturday, April 17, 2021 at the Sussex Health Centre. Born in Norton, NB, on December 23, 1936, she was a daughter of the late Talmage and Lily (Tait) Vail.
Gerna’s greatest passion was her family. She loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, always making sure that there was a cupcake for every occasion and treating her family and friends to the best baked goodies. If anyone in the family was ill, she made sure they received lots of calls of encouragement. She was always ready for a game of Uno, 45, crokinole, or canasta. She was a special lady, who will be missed by her whole community!
Gerna was a social butterfly, whose door was always open for people to drop by and stay for a while. She often had a meal prepared in advance so that she was ready to invite church newcomers or missionaries over for lunch. She truly loved hosting and entertaining her family and friends. She was a member of the Norton Seniors Club, attended the Norton Wesleyan Church, and was very active with the Sussex Sharing Club.
Gerna loved music! She regularly played the organ, piano, and guitar and really enjoyed singing Alto in the choir. She adored birds of all kinds, especially cardinals and was famous for her “All Seasons Tree”, which was left up all year and decorated to suit whatever season or holiday was coming next. Gerna will be most remembered for her caring heart, compassionate support, contagious laughter, and comforting smile.
Gerna is survived by her two daughters: Brenda DeLong (Harold) of Lower Greenwich, NB, and their children David (Tasha), Krista (David Seward), & Hayley; and Cathy MacLennan (Gary) of Norton, NB, and their children Kari (Alex) & Kyle; her great grandchildren: Brady (Simone), Emma (Jake), & Ryan; her brother, Talmage “Tam” (Joanne); and her special granddaughter, Madeline Webb. Gerna is also survived by many very special nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to her parents, Gerna was predeceased by her loving husband of 49 years, Don McCullum; and her siblings: Viola, May, Ina, Fern, Murray, & Gert.
Gerna’s family would like to thank Dr. Scott Green, the special Extra-Mural nurses, and the staff of Sussex Health Centre, for their care and compassion.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Sherwood’s Funeral Home and Life Tribute Center (506-839-2156), 18 Scovil Road, Norton, NB. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a private graveside service will take place at Riverbank Cemetery.
Donations in memory of Gerna may be made to the IWK Foundation or a charity of the donor’s choice. Personal condolences to the family and donations may be made through: www.sherwoodsfuneralhome.com
