It is with great sadness that I announce the peaceful passing of my sweet mother at the age of 99 years. Formerly of Clarence, NS, she passed away on Friday, March 27, 2015 in Valley View Villa, Riverton, Pictou County surrounded by her loving daughter, granddaughter and her "Villa" family. Born in Montreal on September 7, 1915, she was the only daughter of the late Christopher and Mabel (Hermittage) Thomas. Nellie was a member of the Clarence United Baptist Church having served with the Clarence Church Aid and Clarence Missionary Society. She was a past member of Valley Rose No. 126, Rebekah Lodge, Lawrencetown where she had served as Past Noble Grand and held other offices. Nellie was former Secretary Treasurer of Nova Scotia Angus Association and former Executive Member and Homecraft Chairperson of the Annapolis Valley Exhibition. She was very active in her community with the Clarence Community Club and the 4-H club. In 1988, she was presented a Certificate of Appreciation for outstanding volunteer service in Annapolis County. Nellie loved her family dearly, especially her grandchildren. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her. She is survived by her daughter, Lynn Vance, Merigomish; her granddaughter, Meryl Kerr-Polley (Ryan) and great-grandchildren Autumn and Brady of Stellarton, NS. She is also survived by her son, Thomas Hirst, Halifax and her grandchildren, Richard Hirst and Jason Hirst. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her husband William "Bernard" Hirst and her brothers Christopher, Herbert and Wilfred. Sincere appreciation to her friends in Clarence, whose help allowed her to stay in her own home as long as possible; to the staff of Saunders Rest Home in Bridgetown NS and to all the staff at Valley View Villa in Riverton NS where Mum was provided loving care in her later years. Visitation will be held from 2-4PM and 7-9PM Wednesday, April 1, 2015 with a Rebekah Lodge tribute being held at 7:00PM conducted by St. Eudora Rebekah Lodge No. 43 in the Middleton Funeral Home, 398 Main St., (902) 825-3448 where a funeral service will be held 1:00PM Thursday, April 2, 2015 with Rev. Gary Manthorne officiating. A reception for family and friends will follow the service. Interment will be held in Fairview Cemetery, Lawrencetown. Family flowers only please. Donations in Nellie's memory may be made to Clarence United Baptist Church, Saunders Rest Home, Bridgetown NS or to Valley View Villa, Riverton NS. On-line guest book may be signed by visiting: www.middletonfuneralhome.com