Obituaries

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Clara Lawrence on Monday, June 16, 2025, at the age of 91.

Born on March 29, 1934, in Nova Scotia, Clara was the beloved daughter of the late Arthur and Effie Lawrence. She attended Manchester Public School and, from a young age, demonstrated quiet strength, deep compassion, and a remarkable work ethic.

As a young adult, Clara moved to the United States in search of greater employment opportunities. Throughout her life, she worked many jobs with dignity and dedication, always driven by her love for her family. In 1970, she returned to Nova Scotia, where she continued her life of care and service. Her final role, one she held with great pride, was as a personal care worker (PCW) at the R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home in Antigonish. Her calm presence and gentle touch left a lasting impression on those she cared for and worked with at the R.K.

Clara was a loving mother, sister, auntie, grandmother, and friend. She enjoyed gardening, music, and spending time with her family—especially when it included a warm cup of tea or coffee and a sweet treat. A woman of deep faith, Clara was a devoted member of the Antigonish congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, where she found strength, community, and spiritual joy.

She is survived by her children: Clarence (Brenda) Lawrence, Cecil Lawrence, Thomas Ashe, and Belinda Criddell; her brother, Fred (Sophie) Lawrence; her sister, Bessie (Cecil) Reddick; and a host of special nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who brought her endless joy.

Clara was predeceased by her parents; her beloved son, William (Nathan) Lawrence-Cleare; her brothers, Arthur, Gordon, and Leonard Lawrence; her sister, Susan Lawrence; and her son-in-law, Keith Criddell.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff at High-Crest Nursing Home in Sherbrooke, Nova Scotia, for their exceptional care, kindness, and support during Clara’s final days.

She will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever loved.

A celebration of life took place on June 21 the Boylston Community Centre. Burial will take place at a later date. Donations in Clara’s memory may be made to the Nova Scotia Foundation for Mental Health at www.mentalhealthns.ca.

Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at www.haverstocks.com.