Donna (Williston) Sweezey
1939 – 2020
It is with deep sadness that the family announces the death of Donna (Williston) Sweezey, R.N., wife of William (Bill) Sweezey on April 26, 2020 at the age of 80.
Born in Newcastle, she was the daughter of the late Horace Williston and Elsie (Anderson) Williston. Donna grew up in Hamilton and Brantford Ontario, where she graduated from Brantford Collegiate and in 1960 from the Hamilton General School of Nursing and McMaster University. In 1963 she married William (Bill) Sweezey and returned to spend the rest of her life on the Miramichi. Upon returning to the Miramichi she did some private nursing and taught Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Hotel Dieu School of Nursing in Chatham. Later she was employed as a part-time supervisor at Mount Saint Joseph for several years.
Donna leaves to mourn her loving husband Bill, her soul mate for 56 years, as well as one daughter, Beth (Brian McCloskey), and three sons Kirk (Marsha), Jeff (Cynthia) and Scott. She also leaves her five cherished grand children: Janessa, Emily, Benjamin, and twins Abby and Emma. She also leaves her brother Dr. Bob Williston. She was predeceased by her parents as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins.
Her family was the central focus of her life, and she always was happiest when they were gathered around her. We want to especially thank Cheryl Chiasson, cherished friend and care giver. Also sincere thank you to the loving care she received at Mt. St. Joseph and the Shannex nursing home.
Donna was a member of St. Jude's Anglican Church in Brantford and adherent of Knox United Church, Loggieville and St. Andrew's United Church, Chatham. She was a member of the Highland Society of N.B. at Miramichi, a member of the Miramichi Area Retired Nurses and a former member of the Chatham Chapter of the I.O.D.E as well as a member of the former U.C.W Edith Bell Until. She was active in Girl Guides and was District Commissioner for the Miramichi Region. Donna was an avid reader, enjoyed the cottage, her many travel adventures, and entertaining her friends and guests at her home.
A graveside memorial service was held on Thursday June 4, 2020 at 11 am with Rev. Charlene Maguire MacKnight officiating. The scripture reading was read by Emily Roe-McCloskey and Sharing of Remembrances was given by Kirk Sweezey. A musical selection "Remember Me" was sung by Susan Butler and Hannah Johnston played "Amazing Grace" on the Bag Pipes. Interment was held in the Black River Community Cemetery.
As expression of sympathy, donations to a charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated by the family. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Adams Funeral Home Ltd, 140 King St., Miramichi, telephone (506) 773-3492 or messages of condolence may be sent online to www.adamsfh.ca
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