Florence (Taylor) Erskine formerly of Bathurst (1965 to 2022), and mother of four passed away on October 10, at the age of 90 at the Briarlea Special Care Home. Florence is remembered for her gracious social ease, a love of nature, and her general acumen. Friends insist that, although successful in business and many other endeavours she never fought or even raised her voice other than in song.
Born in 1934 to the late Colin Ross Taylor and Florence King Taylor at their Windsor, NS home; fourth born of five, she spent an idyllic childhood in and around the Annapolis valley. She had many cousins, and visits with relatives were weekly occurrences. This extended family developed in her a caring, attentive, and open personality. Her gregariousness, approachability and willingness to share enjoyment of daily life survived even as late life dementia stripped much away.
She graduated from Edgehill School (Birks Medal) and Acadia University before marrying Roger Erskine in 1956 to start a family. Roger was a mining engineer, and they moved seven times in seven years before arriving in Bathurst. To support her four children after his 1975 fatal air crash, Florence entered employment with Canmar Industrial Supply, soon becoming general manager, this position she held until retirement.
In the company of friends Florence explored every back pathway of Gloucester County. She harvested berries and fiddleheads, played bridge, sang in the United Church choir, baked the finest bread, taught adult literacy, and created lovely flower gardens. She became a beloved grandmother and great aunt, introducing subsequent generations to how one could and should enjoy life with whatever is at hand.
She is survived by three children (Neil, Joe, and Jane), five grandchildren (Andrew, Ian, Julian, Rachel, and David), and two great grandchildren (Sebastian, and Colette). She is predeceased by her three brothers (Ronald, Conrad, and Richard) and by her sister Annabelle Taylor. Although greatly saddened by the 2016 passing of her oldest son Gerald, she did order removal of one phrase from his obituary - "totally awesome mother", restored here. In fact, for us, she was perfect.
The family wishes to express its great appreciation and thanks for the care, service, and affection provided by the staff of the Briarlea.
Respecting her wishes, there will be no visitation. Funeral service will be held Friday, October 25, 11:00 am from First United Church, 309 St. Patrick Street, Bathurst NB. Reception to follow in the hall.
Arrangements are entrusted to Cobb's Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 330 Whitepine Road, Riverview, NB (506-869-2007).
Online condolences may be expressed at www.cobbsfuneralhome.ca
