After a brief time in Valley Regional Hospital, Kentville, Willena passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 19, 2025. Willena was born to the late Alphonse and Winnifred (Byrne) Saccary in Bridgeport, Glace Bay on September 26, 1938. Due to her mother's death at a young age, she was taken in around age five by her godmother Teresa McInnis with her husband Elmore. They took her in as their own child and thus began the blessing of having two beautiful families with so many siblings, nieces, and nephews, all of whom she deeply cherished throughout her years.  As a young woman she pursued work opportunities resulting in a move to Antigonish, N.S. where she met the love of her life, Leonard Arsenault.

They were married and over time were blessed with three children.  She was a supportive military wife and during his military career they met and maintained many long-time friendships. After leaving the military to become a teacher, Leonard accepted a teaching job in Middleton, N.S., and in 1967 they made the move to begin a new chapter in their life.  Not only was she a mother of two, but she helped build their home while pregnant for their third child and also provided hairdressing services for clients.  She was a member of the association of NS Hair Dressers (and retired as a Master Hairdresser).  She had many accomplishments throughout the years and was eager to volunteer in different capacities, including hosting international students, being a past president of the MRHS Band Parent's Association, being a member of the Middleton Curling Club, and canvassing for numerous organizations.  She became an associate member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 98 in Kingston, N.S.  She was a devout Catholic and in earlier years was a charter member and past president of St. Monica's CWL.  She was a very social person and loved to travel, dance, go to live theatre, play cards, spend time with friends, and kept in touch with family and friends near and far through many phone calls.  Will was a proud Cape Bretoner, a loyal and caring friend, had a generous spirit and would do anything to help someone in need.  Her family and friends meant everything to her; she loved them deeply and wished them all God's blessings.

Willena is predeceased by her beloved husband, Leonard; her brothers, Leo, John Will, and Myles Saccary, Michael and Leonard McInnis; sisters, Annie Knox, Theresa (Saccary) Rowe, Irene (Saccary) Lynk, Kate (Saccary) Metcalf, Beatrice (Saccary) Moore, Mary Ellen Saccary.

She is survived by daughter, Theresa (Donnie) Morris, Mississauga, ON; son, Joseph Arsenault, Nictaux, NS; and daughter, Michelle (David) Doucette, Wilmot, NS; grandchildren, De (Rita) Morris, MK Morris, Thomas Arsenault, Ben Arsenault, Breanna Doucette and Zachary Doucette. She is also survived by her siblings, Jean (Maurice) Labranche, Catherine (McInnis) Cheliotis, Eddie (Tina) McInnis, Kevin McInnis, and many nephews and nieces.

A special thank you to Cathy and Bill Rodda who were incredibly supportive and loving to Willena, particularly during her last few years.  Cathy gave Mom TLC, laughter, and love and for that we will always be grateful.

Theresa, Joe and Michelle would like to thank the doctors and nurses at Valley Regional Hospital for their professional and compassionate care.  Visitation will take place from 1-3 pm and 6-8 pm, Thursday, April 24, in Middleton Funeral Home 398 Main Street, toll free 1-855-825-3448. Funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, April 25, in St. Monica's Roman Catholic Church, 41 Connaught Ave., Middleton, NS.  Rev. Fr. Michael Walsh officiating, with a reception in St. Monica's Hall. Burial to follow at St. Lawrence Cemetery, Kingston NS.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory to the L.J. Arsenault Memorial Award at Middleton Regional High School or a charity of your choice. Online guest book may be signed by visiting: www.middletonfuneralhome.com