James (Symes), Helena "Lena", age 93, of Antigonish.

Mom passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on September 9, 2024.

Born in Parsons Harbour, Newfoundland, she was the daughter of the late John Robert and Berthania (Harris) Symes. She was deceased by her husband, Stanley Robert "Bob" James, on February 16,1993.

Mom was devoted to her family and friends. Her dry wit and humour will always be remembered. She loved to read, play cards, knit, and cook. Her bread and gingerbread men were famous. When the grandkids and great grand kids were heading out the door, she always said "give your grammar a hug. "

She is survived by her children: Elaine (Greg) MacEachern, John (Terrilee) James, Olive (Les) Rose; grandchildren: Michael, Melissa, Rebecca, Meaghan, Kendra, Brianna, Candace, and Lesley; and 10 great grandchildren; sister-in-laws: May Janes and Carrie Stevens; as well as many nieces and nephews

Besides her husband, she was also predeceased her siblings, Olive (Sam) Prosser, Peter John (Eva) Symes, Lawrence Simms, Harvey Symes, Ernest (Lena) Symes.

Special thanks and appreciation are extended to the Palliative Care team, Home Care team, St. Martha’s hospital staff in various units for their care and support over the years, Kim Worth and Shelly MacLennan. Everyone’s support allowed her to remain in her home.

Also, a special thanks to Don and Helen MacDonald, whom she considered part of the family.

A service to celebrate her life will be held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church on September 14, 2024, at 11am with interment to follow at St. James and St. Paul Cemetery.

Family flowers only, please. In Memoriam, donations may be made to the Cancer Resource Room care of St. Martha’s Regional Hospital Foundation.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of C.L. Curry Funeral Home, Antigonish.  Online condolences:  www.clcurry.com