Obituaries

Colleen Tresa Carroll (Melvin) (Benson) It is with heavy hearts that we sadly announce the passing of Colleen Tresa Carroll 91. Colleen passed away peacefully at Arborstone Enhanced Care in Halifax on May 11 2020 in her Son Freddy’s compassionate and loving arms. Colleen was born on November 15, 1928 making her the proud third oldest Daughter and child of the late Edward Joseph Carroll and Daisy Belle Warren Carroll.

Colleen is survived by Her Identical Twin Son's Frederick Francis Benson A (Brenda) Amherst NS, Clarence Joseph Benson B (Zena) Halifax NS. Son James Edward Melvin (Debbie) Halifax NS. Daughters, Patricia Melvin Smith Marsh (Dave) Halifax NS, Gail Melvin Quigley (Bernard) Halifax NS. Sisters, Jean Carroll Hartland (James) Hampton NB, C Phyllis Carroll (John Larson) Halifax NS. 11 Grandchildren with special recognition going out to Granddaughter Melissa Melvin Halifax NS, Grandsons Brandon Benson Montreal QC and Christian Benson Agassiz BC for whom she shared a special love and bond with each. Colleen had 15 Great Grandchildren and remarkably Colleen had 11 Great Great Grandchildren. Colleen loved all her nieces and nephews and always remained extra found of her Sister Mona’s youngest daughter Denine Ryan Mitchell (Shawn) Halifax NS. Colleen had too many cousins and extended family members to mention but she remained extra found of her cousin Dave Chalmers (Joan) Deep Brook NS.

Colleen was predeceased by Her Father Edward Joseph Carroll, Her Mother Daisy Belle Warren Carroll, Her Husband James Patrick Melvin, Her Common Law Partner Frederick Francis Benson, 4 Sisters, Bernice Carroll Love (Stan), Mona Carroll Ryan (Doug), Thelma Carroll Kirby (Frank), Patricia Carroll Jenson. Two Brothers, Edward Sonny Carroll (Ruth) and Kenneth Carroll.

Colleen lived her younger years in Halifax where she Married her husband James Patrick Melvin and had her first three children, Pat, Gail and Jim. During the early years in Halifax Colleen enjoyed a career as a Master Hairdresser at the Bobbin Beauty Salon and Evelyn's Beauty shop. Colleen also operated the Beauty Nook in her early years. Colleen maintained a very active social life during these early years and expanded on it whenever possible and truly embraced all her world had to offer. The pride Colleen had for her family lineage was unmistakably true and real.

In Colleen's later years she partnered with Frederick Francis Benson and moved to Toronto where she had Twin Son's Frederick and Clarence Benson. While living in Toronto Colleen became a lifetime member of both The Dominion Civil Service War Veterans Association and The Woman of the Moose Lodge. Colleen enjoyed years of dancing and an extremely satisfying social life that included much time spent with long time friend Sandy Callaghan, of whom she remained in contact with until the very end. Colleen also enjoyed all the time she shared with her companion and social partner Wally H. during these years.

Colleen returned to her birthplace of Halifax in 1988 and returned to hairdressing part time until her retirement. During Colleen's retirement she remained very active joining the Halifax Seniors Skating Club and taking part in years of line dancing with her sister Phyllis and long time friend Corrine Rose. Colleen enjoyed attending every social gathering possible throughout her entire life. Colleen was very found and proud of her connection to both the Fairview legion and the Vimmy legion especially and enjoyed her time there with all her friends and associates immensely. Colleen's passion for dance, social life and just dressing up for any occasion was incredible and incomparable. Colleen’s love of music and dance was the driving force behind her very active social life.

Colleen Spent her last few years living at peace and residing at Arborstone Enhanced Care where she was enjoyed by all. Colleen enjoyed conversation, singing and listing to her favorite radio station Seaside FM along with dance parties in her room. Colleen’s family would like to thank all the staff at Arborstone Enhanced Care that contributed to Colleens care and comfort. Thanks for helping her find some peace during her last few years. Also a big thank you to Colleen’s long time Hairdresser, Theresa May Gray! Thanks for always being a great friend and hairdresser until the very end. Colleen will be sadly missed and always remembered fondly by most Family and all Friends.

Rest in Peace Colleen, My Sister, My Mother and My Grandmother...Until we are together again, rest easy! We love you and carry you deep within all of our hearts and souls. Thank you for all the years you gave to each of us. We all have a new Angel! Respectfully speaking, I will hold you in my arms again my sweet and dear Mother! I promise you this Mom….the next time I hold your hand in mine it will be for our forever! Sincerely… Freddy A. I love you and nothing between us has changed nor will it ever. R.I.P Mom

Cremation has already taken place and Colleen Ashes will be peacefully resting at home with her son Fred in Amherst NS until a permanent resting place is decided upon. A celebration of Colleen’s life will take place at a later date do to the current restrictions. Donation can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Alzheimer’s Society respectfully in Colleen’s name