It is with profound sadness and shattered hearts that we have to announce the passing of our beautiful sister, Linda, on March 7, 2026. Born in North Sydney on Jan 7, 1956 (she loved to remind us right after boxing day that her birthday was coming), she was the daughter of the late Gordon Matthews and Claretta (Billard) Matthews.  

Linda had to be one of the gentlest and loving people who has ever graced this world. She never had a bad word to say about anyone and always had a smile on her face. Linda loved her country music and Charlie Pride was her favorite unless it was Christmas, then it was Jim Reeves. She would sing along and even if she didn't know the words, she would find new words that suited her perfectly. 

Linda was a member of Haley Street and was one of the last surviving original clients from the time when CAMR ran a drop-in center at Indian Beach. She loved talking with other clients and staff about her summers in Grand Bruit, Newfoundland, which was her favorite summer place, where she was loved by the residents and experienced a freedom and independence she did not have in North Sydney. She loved to talk about the “SSSS Caribou” and the “Reen Runner,” the “scene val coast of Grand Bruit” and her “Mug Up” at bedtime.  

Linda was always busy with her work. She made many a flower for weddings and so many clothes hanger wreaths at Christmas. She was a perfectionist and every strip had to be tied just right and every flower fluffed perfectly. Linda’s dream was to be a nurse and a bride; however, she didn’t want the husband, just the wedding. We made sure she had her veil and bouquet and she was told often what a beautiful bride she made. 

Linda always started a story with “Do you remember…”  (Do you remember Pirate? Do you remember Tim? Do you remember snowball?). If we needed information on a pet from long ago, we could just ask Linda, she would definitely remember. What we wouldn’t give to hear now a “Do you remember…”  

For nearly twenty years Linda resided in Resicare on King Street in Sydney Mines. The staff members there were nothing short of amazing and Linda was happy and thriving with her Resicare family. We will be forever grateful to the wonderful care and love Linda received from the staff there, and Linda loved all of you in return.

Linda is survived by her three sisters - Faye Denney (Claude), Dora Matthews and Lydia Matthews. She is also survived by her nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and one great-great nephew; her aunt and uncle, Sharon and Richard Matthews, as well as a great many cousins. 

We would like to thank Dr Hickey, Dr Wawer, Dr Wambolt, Dr Ignacio, and Dr Salah. Thank you to the staff on the 2nd floor, 4th floor, 5th floor and special thank you to the staff of Tai Solas on the 3rd floor of The Northside General Hospital who cared for Linda during her stay. 

A graveside service will take place at a later date in Lakeside Cemetery. Online condolences can be left for the family by writing on the tribute wall of the obituary page.  

The sister circle has been broken, We will never be the same

For the glue that held us together, Is now forever heavens gain.