Hilling, Beverly Joyce, 84, of Antigonish. It is with great sadness that the family of Beverly Joyce Hilling, our mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and aunt, announces her passing on May 1, 2026 at St. Martha’s Regional Hospital, Antigonish, N.S.
Joyce was the daughter of the late James and Olivia (Arbuckle) Adams, born and raised in Antigonish, NS. She trained to be a nurse at the Aberdeen Hospital School of Nursing, and was a proud member of the 1961 graduating class. She formed life long friendships, enjoyed class reunions, and visits with her nursing classmates over many years. Joyce nursed with gentle care and compassion, known for her "cold hands" but warm heart. She spent most of her career as an office nurse for Dr. RD Saxon, and Dr. R Hegarty in Antigonish, N.S.
Joyce was a lifelong member of St. James United Church and an active member of the United Church Women (UCW) group. She served in any way that was needed; organizing functions at the church, reaching out to those in need, and contributing to the overall fellowship of its community. Through Joyce's service and devotion to her community, she has developed lasting friends who became her wider family.
Family was at the center of Joyce's heart. She held immense pride in her family that was felt in each milestone she helped celebrate. She is survived by her son, David James and his wife Jeniffer (Shaffner) Hilling, Antigonish; grandchildren Ashley (Hilling) Pettipas and her husband Travis Pettipas, Antigonish, Adam Hilling (Maggie MacLean), New Glasgow; great grandchild Rosemary Ann Pettipas, daughter of Ashley and Travis Pettipas; sister Marilyn (Wayne) Borgald, Fredericton, NB; niece Lisa (Phillip ) Sharpe, their son Joshua, Keswick Ridge NB, and nephew Bradley (Christy) Borgald and their daughters Kate and Caroline, Fredericton NB. She was predeceased by her parents James and Olivia (Arbuckle) Adams, and brother Douglas Adams.
Cremation has taken place. Visitation will take place at C. L. Curry Funeral Home, Antigonish, NS, on May 6, 2026 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm. A Celebration of Life will be held at St. James United Church May 7, 2026 at 2pm with Reverend Peter Smith officiating. Burial in the parish cemetary. A reception will follow in the church hall hosted by the UCW. We request family flowers only, donations in Joyce's name may be made to St. James United Church, or a charity of your choice. Online condolences:www.clcurry.com