Obituary of Brenda Jean Wood

Brenda Jean Wood, aged 71, of MacPherson’s Mills, passed away peacefully at the Aberdeen Hospital Palliative Care unit, December 23, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. Brenda was born on May 30, 1952, to the late Barbara and John Wood, and was raised in the Garden of Eden, a place that remained near and dear to her heart. She often referred to “The Garden” as the best place on earth. She graduated from Nova Scotia Teachers College with her teaching diploma and later from Saint Francis Xavier University with her Bachelor of Education degree. Brenda dedicated her life to her teaching career, having nurtured students at Dr. W. A. MacLeod, Frank H. MacDonald, and A. G. Baillie schools. During these last days, Brenda fondly reflected on her days spent with students, remarking that she was privileged to have had the most rewarding career. Teaching was her passion and what a respected educator she was. Her lasting childhood friendships and those gained thru her teaching years, brought about many adventures including daily walks at the track, travel to the warm beaches of Bermuda and Cuba, and several shopping trips to the states. Brenda enjoyed endless hours spent in the Garden quilting with her mom, decorating her parents’ home for the holidays and opening it up for the community to enjoy, raking blueberries from the family farm and decorating the fresh cut Christmas trees that were groomed on her dad’s acreage. Her gentle, humble and kind demeanor was heartfelt by all who had the privilege to know her. Brenda loved to have visitors and enjoyed hosting many family gatherings with Fred on Christmas Eve at their home. Through the years, when Brenda wasn’t in her flower gardens or redecorating their home, she could be found riding shotgun in one of the many antique cars that Fred restored. Together, they enjoyed attending car shows all around NS. Brenda is survived by her loving partner of 32 years, Fred Rhyno, son Blair (Shannon) Yerxa, grandchildren: Zakk, Kale and Iris, stepchildren: Donna (Steven) MacGillivray, Andrew (Janah) Rhyno and Ruthie Rhyno (George), Janice Rhyno and their families, brothers Jack (Linda) Wood and Jim (Debbie) Wood, several special nieces and nephews. Brenda was predeceased by her parents, her special Aunt Eunice, several aunts and uncles and her stepson Sandy Rhyno. A special thanks to Dr. Magnus MacLeod, the VON, Dr. Ann Kwasnik, Heather Cameron for her music at the hospital and the incredible Palliative Care staff who cared for Brenda during her final days. To the many wonderful friends who supported Brenda during her illness with visits at home and at the hospital, the many meals that were prepared and delivered and heartfelt messages sent, your acts of kindness are appreciated beyond measure. Arrangements are under the direction of H. W. Angus Funeral Home, 256 King Street, Box 221, New Glasgow, NS where the family will receive visitors on Wednesday, December 27th 9:45 - 10:45am followed by a family funeral service for family and invited guests at 11am with Rev. Dr. Glen Matheson presiding. A private burial to follow in the Garden of Eden Cemetery. Donations in Brenda’s memory can be made to the Garden of Eden Cemetery Fund, Aberdeen Hospital Palliative Care Unit or to the Breakfast Program at A. G. Baillie School, where cash or cheque can be received at the school office or mailed to 477 Victoria Avenue, New Glasgow, NS, B2H 1X1. angusfuneralhomes.com