Woodgate, Geraldine “Shelly” Patricia (McDonell) – It is with heavy hearts that the family of Geraldine “Shelly” Patricia (McDonell) Woodgate, age 74, of Bible Hill, announce her peaceful passing on 19 September 2025.
Born in Halifax, she was the daughter of the late Harriet May (Colbert) and Donald Joseph McDonell.
Shelly’s greatest joy was her family. She leaves behind her loving and devoted husband of 53 years, Robert; and daughters, Ellen Nadeau (Rob) and Erin Vacheresse (Marc), whom she considered her greatest accomplishments and life’s most precious gift. Shelly found immense joy in being Grammie to Connor (Brittney), Caitlin (Sebastian), Riley (Lauren), Gabriel, Logan (Kelsey), Jozee (Matthew) and Piercyn - a love that was unmistakable to anyone who saw her with them.
She is also survived by her siblings, Mary Ellen MacIsaac, Jean McDonell, Hennie (Ervin) Gilby, Patrick (Linda) McDonell, Kimberley McDonell; sister-in-law, Dena McDonell; and mother-in-law, Ivy Mellaney. She was a special Aunt to many nieces and nephews, and their families, whose lives she touched with her kindness.
Shelly was predeceased by her sister, Judy Carr; brother, Donald McDonell; brothers-in-law Lloyd MacIsaac and Mike Carr.
Shelly provided unwavering support to her children and community. This led to her giving generously of her time and energy whether volunteering with her children’s extracurricular activities or joining community organizations. We fondly remember her chaperoning concert band trips, serving as a Girl Guide leader and cheering from the sidelines. Later on, she took up lawn bowls and became an umpire with Lawn Bowls Nova Scotia. She was a faithful Roman Catholic and held many volunteer roles within her church, always ready to lend a hand. Her commitment to helping others was a reflection of her kind heart and generous spirit.
Shelly had a wide range of interests that reflected her curiosity and creativity. She enjoyed attending agricultural and equestrian exhibitions, where she delighted in the energy and tradition of rural life. She found joy in sewing, knitting and playing card and board games. Always up for a challenge, she took up ukulele and percussion proving that it’s never too late to find delight in something new. She was an enthusiastic spectator of curling, always cheering on her favourite teams with passion and pride. These hobbies brought her comfort, connection, and countless cherished moments. Shelly approached her work with quiet determination, contributing meaningfully across several positions throughout her career. Her last employer was the Nova Scotia Research Foundation, where her career was sadly cut short due to complications from illness.
Shelly will be remembered for her unwavering love, her gentle spirit, and the way she made everyone feel at home. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who loved her.
Our family would like to acknowledge the tremendous gift of organ donation which allowed Shelly to enjoy an additional 30 years of life. We extend heartfelt thanks to the medical teams at QEII Health Sciences Centre and Colchester East Hants Health Centre for their exceptional care, compassion, and expertise.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Kidney Foundation of Canada.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, September 25th, 2025, 11 a.m. in Saint Bernard Church, Enfield, reception to follow.
Arrangements are entrusted to Arimathea Funeral Cooperative.
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