
Merry – Gwen Angela, age 45, of Caledonia, Queens County, N.S., passed away suddenly on Sunday, May 28, 2023, at the Halifax Infirmary-QE II.
Born in Liverpool, N.S., Gwen was the beautiful daughter of Leigh and Catherine (Sutherland) Merry of Maitland Bridge.
Gwen was a true friend to anyone who knew her, taking time to stop and chat. She had a heart of gold which allowed her to care for those in need as if they were her own family, regardless of their age or troubles. Gwenie’s sweet smile would light up the world! She was a Residential Counsellor at Queens Association for Supportive Living where she truly cared for all the residents she looked after and her co-workers. Gwen spent a lot of her time at the exhibition grounds watching horse pulls, softball/ baseball fields and basketball gyms cheering on her brothers, children, nephews and friends.
Gwen leaves behind her “honey”, her partner of many years James Brittain of Caledonia. She will be lovingly remembered by her handsome son Avery Mullen and her beautiful daughter Aleaha Mullen both of Caledonia, who were Gwen’s whole world. Her brothers Timothy (Vanessa) and Ryan (Mary-Jo Conway) both of Bridgewater. Her “handsome boys”, her nephews Darius, Bryson and Kaleb Merry of Bridgewater. She cherished Mary-Jo’s children Isaiah, Pascale, Salina and Ebony of Bridgewater. Her grandmother Isabel (McArthur) Sutherland and Uncle Peter Sutherland residing at Harbour View Haven. Her Aunts and Uncles, Christine (Donald) Hyson of Beaverbank, Bonnie (Garnet) Delong of Albany New, Margaret Weare of Caledonia, Robert (Wilda) Sutherland of Harmony, Gail(Paul) Fancy of Westfield, Arden Doak of NB, Lynn (Steven) Martin of Bridgewater, Larry (Valerie) Merry of Maitland Bridge. Her large family includes many cousins that will never forget their sweet memories.
Gwen was predeceased by her baby brother Troy, her grandmother/ grandfather Evangeline (Weare) and Mervin Merry, grandfather Chester Sutherland, Aunts Paulette (Merry) Doak, Sharon (Merry) Frail and Uncle James Merry.
Cremation has taken place under the direction of Chandler’s Funeral Home, Liverpool. A celebration of life will be held in the pulling arena at the Queens County Fair Grounds, Caledonia, N.S. on Friday, June 23 at 2 pm. Burial will be at a later date. Donations in memory of Gwen can be to SSRH or any charity of choice. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.chandlersfuneral.com for the Merry Family.
Tremendous thank you to all the Doctors, Specialists, RN’s, CCA’s and staff of SSRH and Halifax Infirmary.You are all truly the angels here on earth. You took time to not only care for our Gwenie, but you took care of all the family and friends.
“You are our sunshine, our only sunshine, you make us happy, when skies are gray”
Offer Condolence for the family of Merry; Gwen Angela

Janet Smith
Sending my deepest sympathies to All your Family in this very sad ordeal, I can’t imagine what your going through! Please take care of one another and hold each other tight ! You’re in my thoughts!
RIP Gwenie !!
Arden and Diane Robar
Our deepest sympathies to the whole family. She was a special person whom made everyone her friend. Whether you met her once or often she always smiled and said hello.
Marlene Hiltz
Sending our deepest sympathies to Gwen’s family and friends.We will all miss her smile .Cherish all your memories of her.
Cara
I am so sorry to hear about Gwen’s passing. Sending love and light to you all.
Charlotte (Whynot) Parks
So sorry to hear of Gwen’s passing, my condolences are being sent to the Merry family, hugs to you all
Donald and Inez Shupe
Sending our sincerest condolences to Leigh and Cathy and all of Gwen’s family at the sad time. Remembering her as a young neighbor many years ago. She always had a smile and a hello whenever she seen you. May she rest in peace,
Eva Comstock
So very sorry for your tremendous loss. I always appreciated how warm and friendly Gwen always was to me. Thinking of Avery and Aleaha, and all of you at this sad time. —Eva Comstock (aka Miss Churchill).
Watson and Bonnie Forrest
So so sorry for your loss.
Peter Keirstead
Sending my deepest condolences to all of Gwen’s family and friends. Gwen could light up a room like nobody else and had a kind, caring soul that will be missed by all.
Amanda Doak
So sorry about your loss of your beautiful daughter and my beautiful cousin my thoughts are with you all right now and sending my love to you all she will be greatly missed ❣️
Sherri macbride
We are sending warm thoughts to all of you as you grieve the loss of this beautiful woman.May you take comfort in memories and each other.Our sincere condolences to Gwens family and friends.
Cheryl-lee, Janaya &Adrianna(Big A)
Oh Gwennie our beautiful Angel the girls and I love you so so much. You were like a second mother to my girls we will forever cherish you and our memories may you rest in eternal peace my heart is broken and my thoughts are with the family at this devastating time . Until we meet again my sister my friend .
Barbara Selig
So sorry to hear of Gwen’s passing. Sending my condolences to all her family. God has gained another angel May you fly high .RIP Gwenie.Till we meet again.
Lynn Lavender
Dear Cathy and families,
Nothing I can say will ease your pain,but I am forever sorry for your losing someone so special..thinking of you in the days ahead..take care.❤️
Chris, Jan & Thomas Waterman
We were deeply saddened to hear the news of Gwen’s passing, deepest condolences to all the family .
Judy Fancy
I am so sorry to hear of Gwen’s passing. She was always such a happy person. The first time I ever met her was the time she was four and attending a pony pull at Leon’s. Watching her grow up and then working with her at the store, I always appreciated her friendliness to everyone. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her. She loved her family with great devotion and raised two wonderful children. Please find solace in your memories. Take care.
Tammy Fiske
My sincere condolences to Gwen’s family, she was an amazing strong thoughtful beautiful woman and will be missed everyday.
Elaine Marshall
So sorry to all the family to hear of Gwen’s passing. So glad I got to chat with her at new Ross horse pull
Laura Whitehouse
My condolences to Gwen’s family, friends and community. I will remember fondly Gwen coaching the students for the Students vs. Staff basketball game at NQ’s. She took the comeback win after putting on the full court press. Thinking of James, Avery and Aleaha during this difficult time.
Sharon & Craig Comeau
Leigh and Catherine and all of Gwen’s family
We are so sorry to hear of Gwen’s passing. Our prayers and thoughts are with you all at this most difficult time ❤️
Craig and Sharon Comeau
Janet Daniels
So sorry for your loss. Condolences to the family.❣️
Terry and Joanne
Thinking of you all at this very difficult time. Sending you all warm hugs of healing
Trish Dagley
I still cant believe your gone. The world is a sadder place without you. You have left behind a legacy of kindness, compassion, and caring for everyone you knew and loved, and all of our residents at work that were lucky enough to have spent time with you. I feel so honored I got to work with you for so long. James, Avery, and Aleaha…I am so very sorry for your loss. She truly was a wonderful woman and such a good friend. Hugs to you all…i will forever treasure my friendship with Gwennie ❤️❤️❤️ i will always smile when I think of her and hold tight to my memories of her.
Tina & David Brown
There are no words to lessen the grief your whole family is feeling, but may you all find some comfort in knowing how much people loved and thought of Gwen , she truly was such a special lady. Leigh, Cathy, James, Avery, and Aleaha you all will be in our thoughts at this difficult time
Betty Phoenix
So sorry for the loss of a special person, Gwen will be missed by all.
Sending love hugs and prayers to the families
Love Betty Phoenix ❤️
Sherri Francis
Sorry for your loss.
Helen and Georgie Uhlman
To all Gwen’s family and friends,
Sincere sympathy at her passing. Our little community has lost a wonderful woman and her residents have lost a compassionate caregiver. When I talked to her she really seemed to love her job. Her biological children have lost the most, but their friends have lost a champion as well. She will truly be missed!
Helen and Georgie Uhlman
Treena Dexter
I am saddened to hear of dear Gwen’s passing. She had the best laugh and absolutely lit up the room. My sincere condolences to her family and those who will miss her.
Cindy Conway
So sorry to here about Gwen she truly was a beautiful person inside and out who was loved by all
Sherry Jermey & Chester Hirtle
So sorry to hear of your family’s loss. I remember her from a little girl growing up to be a beautiful young lady . She was always ready to lend a hand to anyone who needed it and a smile along with it, When we were home and she would be in the same place as us she would always ask us how we were doing and wish us a safe trip back home. She will always be in your thoughts and memories as well as others .
Sherry and Chester
Matt Swain
So sorry to hear of Gwens passing. My sympathies to all her family, friends and everyone that knew her.
Ayesha DeMone
So sorry for your loss.
Della Wright
To all the family and friends, we are so sorry for your loss. Condolences to you all at this time and always. May she forever R.I.P. Gone too soon but never forgotten.
Suzanne Frail
So sorry for your loss. Sending my deepest condolences.
CEDRIC AND SUSAN SMITH
TO ALL OF GWEN,S FAMILY AND FRIENDS SENDING HEARTFUL CONDOLENCES SHE WAS SUCH A BEAUTIFUL PERSON HOLD ONTO YOUR MEMORIES CEDRIC AND SUSAN
Kim Munroe
I was very saddened to here of Gwen’s passing. My heart aches for your loss. I enjoyed many shift with Gwen there was never a dull moment working with her. She will be truly missed.
mitchell seldon
so verry sorry to hear huggs to you both
Jeannette Lewis
My thoughts and prayers go out to Gwen’s families She will be missed by all who knew her .She was one awesome person.My condolence to all
Kevin Whynot
Leigh, Cathy and family
Sorry for your loss, our thoughts and prayers are with the family, I worked with Leigh for many years at Stenpro. Take Care.
Ronnie & Debbie Uhlman
To all Gwen’s family, partner, and friends. Sending sincere condolences for the loss of a very special loved one. Beautiful inside and out. She will be truly missed . RIP Gwen
Pat,art conrad
To Gwens Family,So sorry for your loss,Gwen was a very special person.Patsy and Arthur
Dianne and Lyman Whynot
So very sorry to hear of your loss Leigh and family. You are in our thoughts and prayers
Paul Seamone
Sending along my thoughts and prayers at the loss of Gwen. Did not know Gwen but see that we shared the same love for horses and oxen. When younger, I lived in Queens County and attended many, many exhibitions with my cousin, Oran Veinot. May time ease the grief that you feel today.
Sincerely, Paul Seamone
Charmaine Norman/Charlie
So sorry for your family’s loss ,thinking of you all
Bruce and Linda DeLong
To say that we are sorry for your loss doesn’t say enough. We cannot imagine the pain you have in your hearts right now but please take some comfort in knowing that there are so many people out there who are sending love and prayers to all of Gwen’s family and friends! Take care of each other!
Greg Phoenix
You will be missed Gwen by so many I hope that your family can find peace, till we meet again you will always be remembered many blessings to you family during all this god bless.
Daniel Jayne
Sincere condolences to the family
Renee Walker
My deepest sympathy. So sorry for your loss.
Janette veinot
So sorry for your loss. Hold memories close. Gwen you will be dearly miss by all in the community . Fly high beautiful lady
Patricia Baker
I was very saddened to here of Gwen’s passing. My heart aches for your loss. I met her at NSCC and we became friends, She will be truly missed. My deepest condolences to you and your family
Belinda Wentzell Delong
Leigh,Cathy and families,I was shocked to see Gwen has passed away,over the years on occasion I’d meet up with Gwen at Tim Horton’s here in Liverpool,we’d have alittle chat and we’d go on our way.Your beautiful daughter had a heart ❤️ of gold.I am so very sorry for your great loss along with her children,Aunts,Uncles,cousins and especially her beautiful grandmother Sutherland. God Bless you all,may Gwen be R.I.P. Big Hugs to each and everyone of you.
Tanya Joudrey
Sending my condolences to the family, I’m very sorry for you loss.
Ron Shupe
So shocked to hear of Gwen’s passing, one of my first childhood friends. Leigh, Cathy, Timmy and Ryan, I cannot imagine the pain you are feeling right now. Hold each other close and remember all the good times, there were plenty. Take care…. Ron
Russell Miller
My condolences go out to the family and friends of Gwen. Meeting her once –created a bond for life. She always brought a smile to my face and a warmth in my heart when I met her. Her personality was so magnetic. You didn’t forget quickly any exchange with Gwen. Three former teachers broke down crying when informed of this sad news. Gwen had touched their lives and especially their heart. All of our lives were made much better for knowing Gwen. Tears are necessary for healing as long as her memory brings a smile to our faces.My thoughts are with James, Avery, Aleaha, Cathy, Leigh, Tim, Ryan and family
Rebecca and Kevin Crouse
We are so sorry to hear of Gwen’s passing . Sending love to all of her family during this time .
Tracy Oickle
My heart breaks for the loss of such a kind, thoughtful, genuine person. My thoughts are with Gwen’s family and friends at this very difficult time.
Sincerely
Tracy Oickle
Elaine Frail
I was saddened to read Gwen’s obituary. My deepest sympathy to all the family.
Traci Freeman
Condolences to everyone who loved Gwen. She was one of a kind and left memories with everyone who was lucky enough to know her.
Gail Huntley
So sorry to hear of Gwen’s passing.I worked at PennyLane Enterprises for many years.I remember Gwen for her infectious smile, and the love for her residents that was so obvious…What a wonderful employee who will be terribly missed! Gail
Bonnie Labrador and Jerry Mansfield
To Gwen’s Family
We are so saddened to hear of Gwen’s passing. Please accept our sincere condolences. Hugs to you all.
Lisa Conway and Mike Wentzell
Gwen’s passing leaves a hole in her family, and our whole community that will never be filled. She was such a genuine and heartfelt person. She will be forever loved and forever missed. One should strive to leave behind such cherished meories by so many people. Our sympathy is with her family and friends. Love to all
Elaine Parker
I,am very sorry for your lost.Gwenie will be missed by all especially by her big smile .R.I.P.I,ll miss you ,but not forgotten . Love Elaine .
Dwight and Louise Fancy
Condolences to Cathy, Leigh, Timmy, Ryan, James, and her two children and all of her family. Our hearts and thoughts are with you during this time of grieving ,Please know that you are not alone in remembering a truly wonderful person that means so much to so many. Try to remember the little things, the shared smiles, the warm hugs, the laughter. The pain may seem unbearable now, but in time, it is these memories that will win through and you will find happiness again. Our thoughts are with you, Hugs to you all.
Rob & Sandra Carver
To Gwen’s family,
We were saddened to hear of Gwen’s passing. She did light up a room with her smile, and her laughter. She will be
missed in this community. Sending condolences to her parents, her children, her partner and all her family. Our prayers are with you at this sad time.
Faye and Norman Levy
Dear Cathy,Leigh,Tim,Ryan and Families,
Norman and I are deeply saddened to hear of Gwen’s passing. I hadn’t seen Gwen in quite a while, but when I did meet her, she was always smiling. Hold on to all your precious memories, as they will help guide you through this sad time. We will continue to keep you in our Thoughts and Prayers.
Faye & Norman
Karen Hathaway
So sorry for your loss ,my prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
Doreen and Brian Baxter
We wish to send our condolences to all of Gwen’s family, James, Avery, Alesha, Cathy, Leigh, Ryan and Tim. It is such a difficult time for you all. So sorry it had to happen !
Betty Ann Daury
Dear Gwen I hope you get to meet my younger
Sister Vickie. You and her have so many things in common. Love your family, friends and anyone
Who knew them. Little Devils at times and shows their warm hearts the next minute.
Gwen you will be missed by so many. You were one of a kind.
Connie & Danny Mooers
Dear Cathy, Leah, and all family members. Sending our sincere condolences to you. You are in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time, God Bless ..
Debbie Murley
Sincere sympathy to Gwen’s family and friends .Cherish the many beautiful memories that you have of her.Another angel gone too soon.Thoughts and prayers to the family.
Darren and Tammy Weare
We are sending our condolences to Gwen’s family and friends, so very sorry for your loss.
Rick Allen
I was shocked to hear about this news , so very sorry for all of the pain family and friends are going through right now . Gwen’s memory will live on in the heats of all who knew her and those who only met once . RIP Gwen
Faye & Norman Levy
Dear Cathy,Leigh,Tim and Ryan,
Norman and I are so deeply saddened to hear of Gwen’s passing. I saw Gwen sometime ago, and it was so good to see and talk with her. Her smile was contagious. Hold your memories close as they will help you through this sad and difficult time. I will keep you close in my thoughts and prayers.
Norman & Faye Levy
Barb Veinot
Condolences to all Gwen’s family. RIP Gwen
Brenda & George Brady
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Kim Masland, MLA
To Gwen’s Family and Friends,
No words can describe how sorry I am for your loss. Gwen was such an incredible, kind, passionate lady. She positively impacted every life she touched. I hope your many memories shared together and Gwen’s beautiful smile will comfort your hurting hearts.
Gwen’s passing will leave a void in the community that will never be replaced. Please know you are in my thoughts.
My deepest condolences.
Anne
It was an honor to work with you and to be your friend. I’m am heartbroken for a life lost way too soon and for your family in trying to figure out how to go on without you… be at peace my friend ,until we meet again .xo
Steven Ringer and family
So very sorry to hear of Gwens passing. Condolences to all of her family and closest friends.
Scott Baxter
My condolences to all of Gwen’s family,.
Leigh, Cathy,, James, Avery, Alesha, , Ryan and Tim.
I am so sorry to hear of your tragic loss. May God give you strength. Rest in peace Gwen.
Lynn Murray
To Gwen’s family and all of her friends,you have my deepest sympathy. Hang on to each other and your happy memories. God bless you all and hugs to all.
Mona Mosher
To Gwen’s family and friends
My heart aches for you all, Gwen was so full of life and had an infectious smile that warmed the heart. Please accept my condolences, life sure throws us curve balls. Thinking of you all in your time of sorrow, hang on to the memmories, they will get you through this tough time and put smiles on your faces over time! ❤
Carolyn Crouse
I cannot imagine what you are all going through, but know that everyone that knew her was touched by her compassion, love of life, love of those around her, her witty ways. I have always loved her along with our 3 girls, Tania had the pleasure and fun of playing ball with her, just being around her was fun. Krista and Gwen took CCA at NSCC together and drove together every morning to and from. I am sure knowing them on a wing and a prayer!! lol Hollie watched on the sidelines with us, but Gwen being Gwen always had hugs and her sparkling smile for all 3 of them and everyone who had the pleasure of being around her! She will never be forgotten by any of us, our family or anyone in our community of North Queens and I am sure many more through her work and travels anywhere she went. A light in this world of uncertainty, her light will shine on through her families, her friends, and all the people who had the honor of knowing her. Myles and Carolyn Crouse and our 3 girls and their families
Carl Demmons
To Leigh & Cathy and all your family: Condolences to all at this sad time. I know what it is like to lose a daughter at such a young age. Your remembrances are what you have, precious and special.
Jordan and Bella Oickle
To Leigh ,Catherine and all the Merry family
So sorry for your loss . Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May she Rest in Peace.
Darren whynot & lisa tarr
To James and all the family we are sorry for your loss.Thinking of you all at these sad times.
Bruce and Sylvia Fancy
To the families and many friends of Gwen , Bruce and I send our heartfelt sympathy . Gwen being a next door neighbor was truly the face of all that is good. I can’t remember her never smiling or giving a quick hi whenever or wherever we met. I am sure God had special plans for her as it was something only Gwen could do. Rest in peace Gwen and sleep well.
Wilma and Tom Shupe
To Leigh,Cathy and all Gwen’s family
We were so sorry to hear of your loss.Gwen will be remembered for her beautiful smile and her bubbly personality.Sending our condolences to you all.
Glen DeMond
Leigh, Cathy and family:
So very sorry to learn of Gwen,s passing. I know her passing will be very difficult for you, but cherished memories and friends will help you through, with God,s blessing.
Glen
Terry &Sheila DeLong
I was shocked when I heard Gwen had passed. She always focused on you when she chatted. She loved being involved with various teams at the school. She’s where she can look after everyone now. RIP sweetheart.
John Dexter
To James and family
Very sorry to hear of your loss. Condolences to you all.
Tom and Sheila Sheppard
I have many fond memories of Gwen. We could not believe it when we heard the news. She was a sweet person and we will all miss her so very much.
Lorraine and Peter Hope
Cathy, Leigh, Tim and Ryan
We were so sorry to hear of Gwen’s passing. She was always such a positive bubbly person who could put a smile on anyone’s face. Cherish the wonderful memories, she will be missed by so many.
Amy Keirstead
Whether she was keeping “The Boys from the Bridge” in line on the school bus or making sure we didn’t break our necks at Mill Falls, Gwen was always looking out for everyone even as a kid. It’s no wonder that she built a loving family and career as a caregiver. She will be missed by the community and those who knew her. My thoughts are with her family and friends as you navigate this challenging time.
Raymond and Muriel Whynot
So very sorry Leigh and mother So hard to lose a loved one so close May you always have memories and remember al the good times in your
life
Dennis & Sharon Wills
We want to extend our deepest sympathies to all the families of Gwen. She had a beautiful smile for everyone as she loved life, friendships, family, music and animals. Gwen will be missed by all who knew her. Much love to all the family Members at this sad time.
Dwight/Christine
We are so sorry about Gwen … I can remember
hearing her laugh at Ian’s antics at the Camp always happy love and hugs to you all
Ronnie and Sandra Ellis
To Gwen’s family we were heart broken to hear of Gwen’s passing. Gwen was a true angel on earth. She was so compassionate , kind , and loving. The first time I met her was at Kempt Sunday School when she was about 3. Then a few years later Ronnie worked with her at the hardware store. Whenever we saw her out and about she always had time to chat and catch up on life. Please except our deepest sympathy. She will live in your hearts and watch over you. R.I.P. Gwen. Much love to you all.