Obituaries

 

Audrey Frances Binder

Passed 1/24/2026

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Obituary For Audrey Frances Binder

We are both relieved and deeply saddened to announce the passing on January 24, 2026 of our mother Audrey (Audie) Frances (née Chisholm) Binder, age 92, born in August 1933 in Port Hawkesbury, NS, daughter of the late James and Rose (née Chisholm) Warner.

Audrey was a consummate teacher. She attended Normal College in Truro and began her career at the age of 18 in a one room schoolhouse in Point Tupper. After taking time to raise a family, she returned to teaching at Hammonds Plains Consolidated School where she remained for 26 years. During this time she acquired her Bachelor of Education from Mount Saint Vincent University as a mature student. Her greatest lessons, however, were taught through her daily actions and words, her generosity of spirit and her exemplary kindness. Everyone who met her recognised the exceptional person she was.

Audrey cherished time spent with family and was the proverbial glue hosting all major celebrations. Until the onset of her decline, she remained a lover of life and was blessed with good health and boundless energy for which she regularly expressed gratitude.

Well into her 80s, she was an avid bowler with the teachers league, loved listening to music and loved to dance. A devout Catholic, she was deeply involved at Holy Apostles Parish Saint Marguerite, serving as a lector, choir member, and an active participant in the ladies auxiliary. She also delivered meals on wheels to a local seniors residence, joking that she was getting her name in for when she needed care herself.

At the age of 84, she flew solo to Bangkok to spend time with her daughter, Tam. She loved every minute of the exotic experience which included, after ringing in the New Year until the wee hours, a full day journey on foot with elephants through rugged terrain. The trekking guide was alarmed by her visible age, a concern she assuaged within minutes by her excitement, nimble steps and limitless energy.

At the age of 88, she moved into a retirement community and was dubbed Speedy within days of her arrival. Those who knew her well also know that she was proud of the moniker TOB (Tough Old Broad) until she was no longer able to remember it, a title she earned after facing major facial surgery for skin cancer with characteristic grace and grit, insisting on lunch and a drink before returning home.

She spent the last year and a half of her life at Northwood Halifax Campus. We extend deep gratitude to the exceptional staff of 8C for their exemplary kindness and care, with special recognition to Dr. Clair Nowlan and Ms. Joei Anne Uy, RN.

Audrey was predeceased by her husband, Lowell; daughter, Colleen; and sister, Marie Kelly. She is survived by her daughter, Tam Fawcett (Glenn); son, Lee; and sisters Loretta Walker and Anne Langlois.

To our beautiful mother, daughter, sister, aunt, friend and cheerleader, you leave a big hole that no one will fill. Thankfully, nothing can take the precious memories of the remarkable person you were.

A celebration of life will be held in July 2026. Details to be announced at a later date.

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Condolences

  • 02/03/2026

    Judy Rowter

    My deepest sympathy to Audrey's family at this difficult time. She taught both my daughters at Hammonds Plains Elementary. I even tagged along on many class trips & had a lot of laughs. Can still hear her saying she would be happy when Lowell finally got his plane built & off her lawn! Her compassion for people is what stood out by far. Always willing to lend a hand. Heaven has gained a special Angel. Rest in peace my friend! Judy Rowter

  • 02/01/2026

    Maryn Anderson

    My sympathy to Audrey's family. Her intelligence, wit and laughter were gifts to me and the entire Church community. Maryn A derson

  • 02/01/2026

    Chris Donahoe

    What a remarkable long life. Pat and I wish you comfort and joy as you remember a life well lived Fondly, Chris and Pat Donahoe

  • 02/01/2026

    Cher Teach (Binder)

    Our deepest sympathies Tam on the passing of your mom. She was a wonderful Aunt that shared her quick wit and funny humor with everyone she touched. I will forever remember her with much affection and love! Cher

  • 02/01/2026

    Donna Lynds

    Sorry to hear about your Mom .Condolences to the family . My self and my late husband Gary were their neighbors on Rockcliffe for 10 yrs . Your Mom and Dad were both wonderful and caring .

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