Obituary of Eileen Shabala

It is with sorrow that we announce the passing of Eileen (Gilfoy) Shabala, aged 71. Born June 5th, 1953, in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, she was the only daughter of the late Harold and Nellie (MacFarlane) Gilfoy. Eileen passed away April 29th, 2025, on her own terms, peacefully in her sleep at home in Williams Point.

Eileen was a much-loved Mom & Nanny, devoted daughter, sister & aunt, loyal friend, talented baker and keen card shark. Eileen was known for her quiet strength, kindness and support of those she loved. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was a number 1 fan of the Toronto Blue Jays, never missing a game, and was a diehard Gushue curling fan. She loved cozying up with a good book, the daily Wordle challenge, and was set to complete the 418th edition of the Collectors Crossword puzzle book. Her thoughtful approach to life and gentle nature will be missed by all who knew her.

Eileen was a deeply spiritual person, she hurt when those she loved hurt, she was joyous when anyone celebrated, she was generous, loved her family fiercely and would go to great lengths to help those in need. Being a true Gilfoy, you could count on stories about the next generation of babies and how smart they were. In her younger years, her life took her to all corners of the world. She travelled extensively with her gal pals, lived in many places, loved her time in Hay River, NWT, but her home & heart was always in William's Point.

Her memory will be treasured by her daughters, Carriff (Zach) Cooke and Amy (Len) Barney. Adoring Nanny of Jensen, Ross, Barrett, Hannah and Lucas. Adored sister of Mike (predeceased) & Susan; Tim & Joan; Hal & Tann; Marty & Barbie; Danny & Michael and Kevin & Allana. Her nieces and nephews have countless memories of special times, words of wisdom, a little mischief, the best Christmas presents, and tons of love. Being from a large extended family, Eileen had special bonds with many of her Gilfoy and MacFarlane cousins as well as with the Mattie clan.

Eileen’s funeral will take place at 11:00 am Monday, May 5th, 2025, in St. Ninian’s Cathedral, Antigonish. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Martha’s Regional Hospital Foundation or L’Arche Antigonish.