Geraldine Mary Clannon Martell

May 12, 1941 – October 06, 2025

“…What matters is how we live and love

And how we spend our dash…”excerpt from the poem The Dash written by Linda Ellis

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of our Mom, Geraldine Mary Clannon Martell, born on May 12, 1941, in Little Anse, Nova Scotia. Mom passed away peacefully, on the evening of October 06, 2025, leaving behind a full dash of memories, laughter and love.

The only child of the late John William and Mary Evangeline (Samson) Clannon, Mom was also predeceased by her husband, Hubert Martell, and by several beloved family pets.

She is survived by her children: Dr. Darlene Morrell (Tony) of Bristol, TN; Joseph Martell of Arichat; and Lorelei Martell of Halifax. Grandsons, Luke (Mickey) of Hamilton, Ont, and Grayson of Bristol, TN. Mom held a special place in her heart for her honorary son, Brent Kinslow (Tina), and close family friend Brenda Boudreau (Bobby).

In 1969, Mom and Dad moved from Little Anse to Pondville. She often spoke of the change—from looking out over an open ocean to being surrounded by trees. But she quickly found her place in a new community, filled with a cast of unforgettable characters—long gone now, but will always be a part of the story of us.

For 35 years, Mom dedicated herself to teaching in Richmond County—shaping young minds with the intensity of a drill sergeant and the heart of a storyteller. Her famous door slam could often be heard throughout the halls. For most of those years, she traveled back and forth to school with her sister-in-law Donna Martell (Hugh), who was not only a colleague, but a best friend, and who you rarely saw her without.

Education was her greatest gift to us. Until the end, she corrected our printing, capitalization or use of commas on the whiteboard in her hospital room. We grew up surrounded by books, and it was understood that university after grade 12 was not optional. She was proud of all our accomplishments, big and small. She was our biggest supporter. Later in life, she loved catching up with her former students but when she retired, she never looked back.

We especially looked forward to the last day of school before Christmas break or summer vacation, when Mom came home with gifts from her students. If we were lucky, there would be a box or two of Pot of Gold chocolates or other treats that the three of us would inevitably fight over.

Though she never learned to swim, our childhood summer days were spent on Pondville beach.

Saturdays brought visits from Aunt Marg (Henry), who we vividly remember sitting at the kitchen table, drinking coffee with Mom. If we got too rambunctious, Aunt Marg would suddenly develop a “headache” which was our signal to behave.

Sunday drives were another highlight. We’d always stop for a bottle of pop, a bag of chips, and a chocolate bar. We have fond memories of camping, an activity all 3 of us continue to enjoy. Each March break Mom would load us up on the Acadian Lines to Halifax to see the Ice Capades.

Mom loved a good game of cards, General Hospital, Freddie Fender, game shows and The Big Bang Theory. She was a faithful Catholic who enjoyed traveling to Saint Anne’s. Truth be told, our Mom was game for just about anything, and each of us cherished the times we could take her for a drive, stop for a meal, and have her to ourselves. She sat in the passenger seat and lived for the moment. She was also known to enjoy a glass of Crown Royal now and then.

As we grew older and moved away, Mom was able to travel. She loved to shop, and she was never short on shoes or clothes. She treasured time with her friends and found joy in their company.

Mom, we know your life was not without trials, but you faced them with strength, and faith. You were our secret keeper and our best friend. You accepted everyone and you never judged. As we learn to live without you, we have already learned just how deeply you shaped who we are. We will carry your lessons, and your love. And though we begin a new chapter in the story of us, we take comfort in knowing you are at peace.

To the very end, Mom was stubborn, independent, and determined to do things her way—just as she lived her life.

In our Mom’s memory, we ask that you take that trip you have always wanted to take, play a game of cards, go for a drive to nowhere and listen to music that moves your soul, stop for a good meal, read a book, spend time with friends, enjoy a sip or two of your favorite beverage, go to the beach or up to the lake. These are the things she loved most, and this is what she would want.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Pluta and Dr. DeRoche. They would also like to thank the exemplary staff at the Strait Richmond Hospital for their care and compassion. Our Mom was treated with respect, kindness and professionalism. We were deeply touched by the care and kindness shown to the three of us by the hospital staff. Their compassion left a lasting impression that we will never forget.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church, Petit de Grat on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 2pm with Father Frank Pellerine officiating. The interment of ashes will follow at the Star of the Sea Cemetery. Mom will be laid to rest with her beloved father, John. A reception will follow the burial at D’Escousse Civic Improvement Hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Strait Richmond Palliative Care Society or to the Canadian Cancer Society.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to C. H. Boudreau Funeral Home Ltd. in Arichat.