Obituary of Melissa Ann Irving

Melissa Ann Irving, age 40, lost her four year long battle with cancer on July 10th, 2024, with her beloved daughter Courtney and husband Nick by her side. Melissa was generous, loving, strong, fierce, beautiful, and brave. She courageously fought until the very end to stay with us as long as she could. Melissa was born on May 20th, 1984 to Paul and Lorraine Irving. She grew up in Barrie, Ontario where she made many childhood friends that she cherished. She moved to Pictou County as a young adult and became well known around the town of Pictou, specifically from her previous jobs at Carver’s and NSLC. She always greeted everyone with a smile and touched them with her kind ways. She made many lasting connections and loved her friends dearly. Melissa faced many challenges over the years, but throughout it all, she remained positive and still made time to enjoy the things she loved most: her family, friends, live music, long walks, a good glass of wine, and lots of laughs. One of her last wishes was for her pride and joy, her daughter Courtney, to continue to make her proud. Melissa is survived by her parents, her daughter Courtney, her loving husband Nick, her sister Jessica, and chosen sister Sara. She was a loving Auntie to her nieces and nephews; Scarlett, Odon, Jayden and Avery. A “grandmother” to her furbabies, Leo and Lewis, she spent many days in her final months cuddling and playing with her boys. The family would like to thank Dr. Rayson, Halifax Cancer Centre, the Aberdeen hospital, EHS, her best friend Kim, the Ojibwe Sagkeeng First Nation of Ontario, and everyone else for their love and kindness throughout this journey. A special thank you to the Palliative Care Team, VON, Cindy Kincaid, and Rachel MacDonald, for the best care and support until the very end. At her request, no funeral service will be held. Please find a moment to raise a glass to remember Melissa, a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, niece, cousin, and friend. In the words of Mumford and Sons, “I will wait for you.”