Obituary of Mina Jeanie "Judy" McGrath-Miller

Mina Jeanie "Judy" McGrath Miller, 96 of Bedford, NS; Kentville, NS and Naples, FL, passed away on May 26 after a long and wonderful life. She was born on March 26, 1921 in Glasgow, Scotland, the daughter of her beloved parents, William and Mary (Cooper) Walker. Judy enjoyed a magical childhood, telling stories about famed magician Harry Houdini, who performed magic tricks at her birthday parties, and visits from comedian Stan Laurel, who was a close family friend. She loved summering at the beach in Fairlie, which remained her favorite place until her death. Judy met her future husband, Gregory McGrath of Bedford (deceased), while entertaining the troops at the outset of World War II. They married in Edinburgh in October of 1940. Shortly thereafter, amidst bomb raids and expecting their first child, the couple decided to return to the safety of Greg's native Canada. Twice they attempted to leave Scotland by ship, but had to turn back after being chased by German submarines. Eventually, the couple and their new daughter made it to New York where they entered through Ellis Island. They ultimately settled in Bedford, NS, later enjoying vacation homes in River John, NS; Kentville, NS and Naples, FL. At a time when women were still fighting for equal rights, Judy became a successful business woman. She served as the social columnist for the Halifax Mail Star. Known for her impeccable fashion sense, Judy also owned a successful dress shop, The Villager Boutique, in Bedford for many years. Judy is survived by her second husband, Doug Miller of Detroit, MI and her three daughters and wonderful sons-in-law: Linda and Roger Livingstone of Ponte Vedra, FL; Barbara and Bill Young of Centreville, NS and Susan and Dean Whalen of Goderich, ON. She created a rich legacy of childhood memories for her nine grandchildren, including Laura Calenda of Warren, RI; Bonne Davis of Newport, RI; Renee Sibson of Ponte Vedra, FL; Greg Young of Halifax, NS; Jason Young of Sheffield Mills, NS; Liam Whalen of Stephenville, NFLD; Ryan Whalen of Hong Kong; Allison Atkin of Warrington, England and Connor Whalen of Goderich, ON (deceased). In her care, they enjoyed picnics on the beach, crisp ginger snaps and walks through enchanted fairy glens. Judy is also survived by her favorite niece and nephew: Ginny Owczarzak of Bay City MI and Stuart Baird of Calumet, MI, who referred to their aunt as "the eternal teenager." She also leaves behind three great grandchildren, Allison Boyle of Northborough, MA; Nick Calenda of Warren, RI and Jacob Carter of Clinton, ON. At Judy's request, the family will be holding private memorial services in NS and Scotland. Family Donations can be made in Judy's memory to the Valley Regional Hospital, http://www.valleyhospice.ca, who provided her with loving care. Hold Judy in your hearts, have a wee dram and cheers to remember her. Arrangements have been entrusted to Serenity Lindsay Annapolis Valley Funeral Home & Chapels, 34 Coldbrook Village Park Dr. (902-679-2822).