Theresa Delores (Gushard) Nickerson

Theresa D. Nickerson

Point Edward

Not even the best of us escape the ups-and-downs of life.  Theresa Delores Nickerson rejoined her heavenly family last Wednesday, November 25, 2020.  Diagnosed with terminal cancer just after retirement, following a forty-year career as a mental health nurse, Theresa bore her battle bravely as she mourned the loss of her son Jamie in July, following the death of her mother four months before.

Born in Ontario on July 12, 1960, Theresa was well-known for her integrity, quick wit, and compassion.  She enjoyed paying (anonymously) for meals while dining out in restaurants — an act of paying-it-forward that gave her immense pride, and only one example of Theresa’s selfless acts for others.

Friends remember her as a Johnny-on-the-spot, always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need.   She considered herself blessed to reside among the best of people in Point Edward, where Theresa lived out her passion for visiting friends and neighbours. Rooting for the Habs was another of her enjoyments in life.

Theresa was predeceased by her mother Mary Gushard, step-father Sam Clarke, and son Jamie Gushard (C.A.F.).  She is survived by her loving husband Ivan Nickerson and son Kyle Gushard (R.C.A.F.); by sisters, Rose (Doug) MacKinnon, Elizabeth (Ed) Skinner, brother Billy and brother in-law Barry (Ann) Nickerson; and by her nieces and nephews.  

Theresa also leaves behind life-long friends, nursing colleague Brenda Hamilton and Thursday night, North Sydney Firehall social partner, Judy. Also, by her faithful companions, Willie the dog and Floyd the cat.

Theresa’s family extend their heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional care she received during her final days in palliative care at Cape Breton Regional Hospital.

Funeral services for Theresa will be announced at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to the W.J. Dooley Funeral Home, 107 Pleasant Street, North Sydney. 

Words of comfort can be forwarded to Theresa’s family at www.wjdooley.com.  In lieu of flowers, they request you follow her example of effortless generosity, and pay-it-forward, knowing that Theresa would be proud. Memorial donations may be made to the Cancer Centre at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital.

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