Obituary of Philomena Marie Abbass

It is with great sadness that the family of the late Philomena Marie Abbass announce her peaceful passing on November 2, 2018 at the Labrador Health Centre in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, NL. She will be forever missed and remembered by her devoted husband Doug, and her treasured children, Karla, Erika (Christian), Kaitlyn and Thomas. Philomena will also be sadly missed by her mother, Ignatia Madden of Grand Falls-Windsor, sisters Eileen, Barb (Keith), Jean (Dennis), Marie (David) and brother Bern (Marg), as well as a large circle of nieces, nephews, and many loving friends. She is predeceased by her father, Louis Madden, who she is now reunited with.

Philomena’s infectious energy and positive spirit could be felt whenever she entered a room. Since arriving in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Philomena spent countless dedicated hours volunteering and giving back to the community through several organizations including the Eastern Labrador Arts Alliance/Lawrence O’Brien Arts Centre, the Labrador Creative Arts Festival, the Melville Music Festival and Mokami Players Drama Group. These were her passions and she loved giving to the Arts Community. When she wasn’t busy volunteering, Philomena could often be found skiing and snowshoeing at Birch Brook Nordic Ski Club, singing in concerts, performing on stage and practicing in yoga. She loved to be active and involved, and her energetic presence and fun-loving nature was reflected in everything she did. Philomena worked as a dedicated school teacher in Goose Bay for 30 years, where she touched the lives of many children and worked alongside those who have become some of her most treasured friends. She was also a devoted member of Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish who believed in the power of prayer. Her faith, which remained steadfast, is what provided her unwavering strength and comfort until her last day.

Visitation for friends will take place at Our Lady Queen of Peace Church (side entrance) on Tuesday, November 6, 2018 from 1pm-4pm and from 6:30pm-9pm. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, November 7, 2018 at Our Lady Queen of Peace Church at 2pm. We would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Fitzgerald, Angie, Dr. Ahmad, Mandy (Inpatient Nurse) and the rest of the Labrador Health Centre staff. We would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of those who prayed for Philomena and sent their blessings over the last 16 months. We know there were many and we have felt and appreciated them all.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Care Foundation.