Mary "Irene" Tough

TOUGH, Mary “Irene” ~ Age 75, of Burlington, Kings Co., N.S., passed away in Valley Hospice, Kentville, N.S. on Friday, July 17, 2026, with her family at her side. Born on March 10, 1951, in Mavillette, Digby Co., she was a daughter of the late Gordon Lee and Elise (Vacon) Banks. Irene had been a stay at home mom; she also worked seasonally in the Annapolis Valley. She was an amazing cook, who was well known for her Rappie Pie. Irene enjoyed quilting, knitting and sewing. She enjoyed summer time the most, when she could get out in her gardens and tend to her flowers. Irene had been known to run the well dry a time or two watering the flowers. Her grandchildren were cherished dearly by her. Surviving are daughter, Angela (Dana) and Dianne (Bill); son, Michael (Colleen); grandchildren, Kayla, Zachary, Lyam, Cameron and Reanna; great grandchildren, Lachlan and Gavin; brothers, Emerson, Gordon and Oscar; sisters, Goldie and Pearl; several nieces, nephews and cousins. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Michael “Mike”; granddaughter, Katherine; sisters, Ruth, Frances, Mary, Violet and Marie; brother, Johnny. There will be a graveside service for Irene and Mike at 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 29, in Burlington Cemetery, Barley Street, Burlington, with Pastor Christina Bigelow officiating. Donations in her memory may be made to Valley Hospice Foundation, Victorian Order of Nurses ~ Annapolis Valley Branch or a charity of your choice. The family would like to say a special thank you to Valley Hospice. Victorian Order of Nurses and Valley Regional Hospital for the care they gave to Irene. Arrangements have been entrusted to Middleton Funeral Home, 398 Main Street, toll free 1-855-825-3448. Online guest book may be signed by visiting: www.middletonfuneralhome.com