Obituary of Nancy Lorena Marryatt

It is with love that we announce the peaceful passing of our mother and grandmother, Nancy Lorena Marryatt (Gray), on January 19, 2026, at the age of 85, following a short illness at the Halifax Infirmary. Born in Sambro, Nancy was the daughter of the late Austin and Gertrude (Findlay) Gray.

She worked for several years at Simpsons-Sears before starting her family in 1967. Nancy then became a devoted stay-at-home mother, dedicating her life to raising her children. She was a faithful member of St. James United Church, past UCW member and a former member of the Ladies Auxiliary for the Harrietsfield–Sambro Fire Department. Nancy had many pen pals around the world, personally handwriting letters for over 30 years. She lovingly knitted countless preemie hats and dolls for the IWK, as well as scarves and headbands for family and friends. She also enjoyed darts and card games with friends.

Nancy is survived by her children Crystal (Sam), Tessie (Mike), Myles, and Lee (Jason); grandchildren Austin (Gabby), Dale (Gillian), Connor, Jillian, and Paige; sisters-in-law Marg Gray and Joan Marryatt; many nieces and nephews; and special friends Eunice Laing and Karen Weaver. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Hugh, with whom she shared 48 years of marriage; her brothers Keith and Granville; sister-in-law Carol; and her cherished cat Charlie.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and nursing staff of 4.1 at the Halifax Infirmary for their compassionate care. Sincere thanks are also extended to Closing the Gap Healthcare and VON, whose support allowed mom to remain in her home over the past few years.

Cremation has taken place under the care of J. Albert Walker Funeral Home. There will be no visitation. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at St. James United Church, with Rev. Sean Handcock officiating. A reception will follow in the church hall. Interment will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in mom's memory may be made to St. James United Church, Sambro, the Sambro Imagination Library at the following link https://bit.ly/3BymJii, or a charity of choice.

"Our lives go on without you

But nothing is the same

We have to hide our heartache

When someone speaks your name

Sad are the hearts that love you

Silent are the tears that fall

Living here without you

Is the hardest part of all

You did so many things for us

Your heart was kind and true

And when we needed someone

We could always count on you

The special years will not return

When we are all together

But with the love in our hearts

You walk with us forever"