Pineo, Constance Frances "Connie" --

With appreciation for a life well-lived, and gratitude for a lifetime of memories, the family of Connie Pineo announces her passing on March 24, 2021, surrounded by the love of her family at the Valley Hospice. Born in Middleton, she was a daughter of the late Melvin and Freda (Francis) Lynch.

Connie was a strong woman with a big heart who carried herself with dignity and grace. Her caring heart saw her through raising her children to be kind and self-sufficient adults to carry on her legacy. She spent time caring for the elderly in her community, and subsequently learning the value of their stories and knowledge. Even throughout her battle with cancer, she chose strength over surrender, and in an effort to spare her loved ones from worry she didn't complain or feel sorry for herself.

Throughout her life, Connie shared the importance of keeping Mikmaq culture alive in her community. A skilled artisan in traditional handcrafted works, her unique pieces were sought after both nationally and locally. She was talented with quillwork, weaving, jewelry, and making porcelain dolls with their own native-inspired outfits.

Connie fostered many friendships and connections that came through selling her moccasins, pouches and regalia at pow wows and craft shows, as well as helping many women improve their own lives through teaching them how to make traditional native crafts. In addition to these cultural contributions, she also served for 20 years as the Glooscap First Nations health representative.

Connie will be missed by her husband of 30 years, Ronald; daughter, Julia Rose (Zak); grandchildren: Hunter Milbury, Janis and Eliza Rose; sisters Heather and Lorna Lynch; stepdaughters: Linda Gould (Troy) and Mary Jane MacDonald (John); step-grandchildren: Samantha and Nicholas MacDonald, Tyler and Emma Gould; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Connie's family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to her friends Terry MacPherson, Val and Ken Hollingworth, and David and Jane Cunningham for their love and support.

In addition to her parents, Connie was predeceased by her sister Janis Walker and her son Dale Milbury. Following Dale's passing, Connie found comfort and support through a group of amazing people in Fall River called "Mothers of Angels"

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Middleton Funeral Home, 398 Main Street (1-855-825-3448). A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, and due to current public health restrictions will be by invitation only. For those who wish, donations in Connie's memory may be made to Valley Hospice,  Diabetes Canada, or the Canadian Cancer Society. Online guestbook can be signed by visiting www.middletonfuneralhome.com