Obituary of Ida Jean Allen

It is with saddened and heavy hearts that we, the family, announce the sudden passing of Ida Jean Allen at home on Sunday, August 6, 2023.

Born in Balmoral, Richmond County on March 11, 1954, to the late Thomas and Ida (Lelacheur) Matthews, Ida was one of twelve children from a large, hardworking and traditional family.

Besides her parents, Ida was predeceased by her husband, Philip Allen; brothers, Harold, Bernard, Norman, Robert (Joan); sister, Catherine Matthews and favorite pup, Rocky. Also gone before her were her mother and father in-law, Jean and Raymond Allen of Pugwash, as well as brothers in-law, Gary, Danny and Stephen Allen. Ida had many angels watching over her.

Left to mourn is her daughter Catherine (Shawn McKenzie) and grandchildren, Carson and Raina McKenzie, who were the love of her life. She is also survived by brothers, Wilbert (Anna), Hugh (Patty), Wayne (Melody), Perry (Christal) and sisters, Maryann and Marilyn (Harvey) Matthews. Also, extended family, Peggy (David), Joe (Marion), Irving (Miriam), Janice Fraser Allen, as well as many nieces, nephews and friends whom she loved very much.

Anybody who knew Ida, knew her as a very easy-going, fun, compassionate, gentle, kind-hearted and generous soul. Those traits she carried through her career as a CCA where she worked at the East Cumberland Lodge in Pugwash, NS and then later at the Port Hawkesbury Nursing Home until illness forced her to retire early. During her time after working, she enjoyed her cats, gardening, listening to music, feeding the many birds that called her yards home, (and even the squirrels and chipmunks), cooking large family dinners, laughing with friends, and spending time with her grandkids. There are no words to express how much she will be missed by so many.

A celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. on  Wednesday, August 16, 2023 in Dennis Haverstock Funeral Home, Port Hawkesbury with Rev. Jim MacNaughton officiating.  Family flowers only please.