Elizabeth “Beth” Hutchinson (Purvis) Sobey - November 1, 1939 – April 26, 2026.

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Elizabeth (Beth) Sobey, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She died peacefully at age 86 surrounded by her family. Beth is predeceased by her husband Donald R. Sobey, her daughter Irene (Aucoin) Sobey, and her parents George and Elizabeth (Dewolfe) Purvis.

She will be dearly missed by her sons Rob (Monique), Kent (Meghan); grandchildren Jane (Logan), Matthew, Connor, Charlie, Josephine and great grandson, Nicholas.

Born in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, Beth grew up in Plymouth Park where she made lifelong friends. After attending Stellarton High School she went to work at the local Scotiabank, and it was there she met her future husband, Donald.

Beth and Donald were generous supporters of the arts, education, and numerous local, provincial and national non-profit organizations. Beth was especially active in community health initiatives, in particular the creation of the Aberdeen Hospital Palliative Care Unit, which has been described as having been born of great compassion by Beth and her co-visionary, Dr. Gerry Farrell. Beth also worked as a volunteer palliative caregiver at the hospital, a role she found both challenging and rewarding. Her compassion, empathy and emotional strength helped provide comfort and dignity to patients. Her advocacy for palliative care established a legacy at the Aberdeen Hospital that continues to support patients and their families. 

Beth was a warm, social and fun-loving person who enjoyed hosting parties and events. She loved animals, the quirkier the better, which inspired the creation of a hobby farm with llamas and Shetland ponies – a project that evolved into the region’s Sumac Farms equestrian center. Together with Donald and their friends, Beth developed many annual traditions travelling and sharing adventures. For Beth though, there was no place like home. A true Pictou County girl, she was happiest at Sinclair’s Island, near the ocean with her spoiled, (and yes) quirky, dog Zoe.

A loyal friend, a loving wife, an understanding mother, an adoring grandmother and great grandmother, Beth will be deeply missed. The family wishes to express a sincere thank you to the wonderful caregivers of Home Instead who spent the final years of her life by her side providing tremendous support, as well as to the VON, the community palliative care team, and everyone who was close to her – you know who you are. Thank you.

Visitation is planned for May 27 from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the H.W. Angus Funeral Home in New Glasgow, with the funeral being held on May 28 at 11:00 a.m. at Little Harbour Presbyterian Church, Pictou County.

In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to the Aberdeen Hospital Palliative Care Unit; Memorial Gifts – Aberdeen Health Foundation.

Aberdeen Health Foundation: 

https://aberdeenhealthfoundation.ca/ways-to-give/donate/