Obituary of Mary Frances Williston

We are sad to announce the peaceful passing of our aunt, cousin, and friend, Mary Frances Williston (Brothers) at Parkstone Enhanced Care on April 19^th, 2025.  Born in Sydney Mines NS on April 2nd, 1923, Mary had recently celebrated her 102^nd birthday. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family, and the third to have lived past the age of 100.

Mary’s husband Arthur Williston died in 1972, and she remained close to his family throughout her life. She was also predeceased by her parents Philip and Catherine Brothers, siblings Joseph, Arnold, Fred, Stanley, Shirley, Elizabeth (Barclay) and Marguerite (Cullinane). She is survived by her sisters-in-law, Denyse Brothers (Fred), Phyllis Williston (Johnny), and Elsie Williston (Floyd), as well as many beloved nieces and nephews from the Brothers, Cullinane and Williston families.

Mary retired after a long career as an executive secretary at Imperial Oil in Halifax. She continued to use shorthand for note-taking and was a stickler for correct grammar. She was a faithful and active member of St Benedict’s Catholic Church until shortly before her 100^th birthday, and dedicated countless hours to volunteer work over many decades.  Known affectionately as “Fa” by her family, Mary was a great friend and loving aunt remembered for her quick wit and generosity.

The family would like to thank the kind and caring staff at Mount Lane, Parkstone Enhanced Care, where Mary lived for the past two years. 

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at Saint Benedict Parish Catholic Church on Thursday May 8^th, 2025 at 12:15 PM, with a reception to follow. Interment will take place in Cape Breton at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, condolences only please.