Vera (Chaisson) Ings

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of our cherished matriarch, Vera Ings, on February 19th, 2025, at the age of 101. Surrounded by the love and care of her family and friends at the Northside Community Guest Home, Vera’s passing marks the end of an extraordinary life. Over her 101 years, she witnessed a century of change, yet remained a constant source of warmth, love, and strength to her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Vera, affectionately known as “Nanny Puss,” was born on October 31, 1923, to the late Wilson and Elizabeth Jane Chaisson in Port aux Basques, Newfoundland. The youngest of eight siblings, she was the last surviving member of her immediate family, having been predeceased by her brothers Freeman, Nathan, George, and Norman, along with sisters Doris, Cora, and Evelyn. Proud of her Newfoundland heritage, Vera and her beloved late husband, Charlie, built their life together in North Sydney, where they raised their children: Harold, Barbara, Alice, and Charlene.

Vera’s faith was central to her life. A devoted member of St. John the Baptist Anglican Church, she was an active participant in the ACW, the church choir, the altar guild, and the Married Couples Association. Her dedication to service extended beyond the church, enriching her community through her involvement with the Northside Pensioners Club and the Fulton Orange Lodge. Whether playing a game of bingo, knitting cozy socks, mittens, and dishcloths for loved ones, attending a dance or social gathering, or welcoming family and friends to her Sunday suppers, Vera found joy in the simple moments shared with those she cherished most.

Vera was predeceased by her beloved husband Charlie, son Harold, daughter Alice, son-in-law Neil and close friends Barb MacDonald and Vi Thorne. Left to mourn with cherished memories are her daughters Barbara and Charlene, as well as daughter-in-law Shirley; nephew, Ian; grandchildren - Stephen, Natalie, Alana, Stephanie, Philip, and Robbie; great-grandchildren - Zachary, Kalee, Noah, Madison, Hannah, Westin, Jenna, Ryden, Arabella, Kherington, Charlie, Woods, and Willow.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the nursing staff on Munroe Place, as well as the dietary, housekeeping, and recreation teams, for the exceptional care and kindness they provided to Mom in her final years. Having lived independently until the age of 99, she was blessed to be surrounded by such compassion. To her fellow residents and friends at the Northside Community Guest Home, who became like family, we are deeply grateful for the warmth and companionship you shared with her. A special thank you also to Reverend Debbie Fice for her unwavering support and comforting presence.

A funeral service to celebrate Vera’s life will be held at 3:00 pm, Friday, February 21, at St. John the Baptist Anglican Church, with Rev. Debbie Fice officiating. Following the service, a celebration of life will take place in MacDonald Hall.  Arrangements are under the care and direction of W.J. Dooley Funeral Home, 107 Pleasant Street, North Sydney. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Vera’s memory to St. John the Baptist Anglican Church or the Northside Community Guest Home.  Online condolences can be left for the family on the tribute wall of the obituary page.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

— Matthew 25:21

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