Obituary of Margaret Elizabeth Chiarella

It is with profound sadness in their hearts that the family of Margaret Elizabeth Chiarella (née Talbot), announces her peaceful passing on July 3, 2024, at Bobby’s Hospice in Saint John, New Brunswick. 

Margaret, the cherished daughter of Duncan and Mary Talbot, leaves behind her beloved husband of 69 years, Graydon, and her children, Debora (Scott), Gina (John), Paula (Shawn) and Mark (Alyona). Her legacy continues through her grandchildren Angela, Nola, Kyle, Yanina, Samantha and Jay, and her great-grandchildren Devin, Darren, Jayce, Ellie and Greyson. She is also fondly remembered by her many nieces and nephews in Montreal, and her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, George and Renata, in North Hatley, Quebec. She was predeceased by her parents, her sister Joan, and her brother John.

Born in Toronto, Margaret moved with her family to Montreal's Notre-Dame-de-Grâce (NDG) neighborhood at the tender age of three. It was during high school in Montreal that she met the love of her life, Graydon. Alongside her romance, she formed enduring friendships with a group of women affectionately known as "Les Girls," who remained close despite the distances that life placed between them.

In 1979, Margaret and Graydon relocated from Dorval (Montreal) to Rothesay, where they quickly embraced the community and decided to make it their permanent home. More recently, they moved to Jubilee Hall, Shannex in Quispamsis, where they found a vibrant community and made fast friends.

Margaret was a devoted parishioner and tireless volunteer in both Montreal and Rothesay, leaving a lasting impact through her dedication to her church and community. She will be remembered for her active lifestyle, her exceptional baking, and her fierce independence. Her passion for physical activity, whether at the gym, power walking, dancing, gardening, or playing sports, kept her youthful spirit alive. Her children often marveled at her boundless energy and resilience.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the extraordinary staff at Bobby’s Hospice in Saint John, especially Dr. Chris O'Brien, whose care and guidance were invaluable. They also wish to thank the staff at Jubilee Hall, and Margaret’s many friends for their support during this difficult time.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Kennebecasis Community Funeral Home, 152 Pettingill Road, Quispamsis, NB (506-849-2119). In keeping with Margaret's wishes, family and friends are invited to visit on Thursday, August 8, 2024, from 2 – 4PM at Kennebecasis Community Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held at St. Paul's Anglican Church, 4 Church Avenue, Rothesay, NB on Friday, August 9, 2024, at 11AM.

For those who wish, remembrances made to Bobby's Hospice, or to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated by the family.

Margaret will be interred with Graydon when he is ready to join her, in their family plot in Notre-Dame-de-Neiges Cemetery, Montreal and a Celebration of their Lives will be held in Montreal at that time, with family.

God has you in his keeping, we have you in our hearts.