It is with deep sadness, but profound gratitude for her life, that we announce the passing of our devoted mother and nannie, Agnes Heather Read (Hastie) of Nappan, age 87. Agnes passed away peacefully at the Colchester East Hants Health Centre in Truro, with her granddaughter Emily by her side.
On July 19, 2026, she was reunited in Heaven with her beloved husband, Roderick Dean Read, and her son, Stephen.
Born on February 6, 1939, to the late Elizabeth (Turner) and William Hastie, Agnes was a woman of quiet faith, steadfast devotion to her family, and proud Scottish heritage.
She was a long-time member of the Nappan United Church and lived her life with a constant, gentle consideration for others. She worked for many years at APSEA up until her retirement.
Agnes is survived by her sons: Malcolm (Gail), Fenwick, NS Rev. Randall (Patricia), Rusagonis, NB, and Robin (Krista), Amherst, NS; daughter in law Elaine (late Stephen); her sister, Ella (late Glen); her cherished grandchildren: Jonathon, Justin (Amy), Julie (Robin), Christopher (Adey), Matthew (Jennifer), Charles (Laura), Jaacob (Loralee), Emily (Peter), and Jillian (Brendan); and many great-grandchildren, all of whom held a special place in her heart.
In addition to her parents, husband, and her son Stephen, she was predeceased by her brothers: John, William (Doris), and Alex (Betty); and her sisters: Margaret (James), Helen (Andrew) and Elizabeth "Betty" (Lloyd).
Agnes found great joy in life's simple, meaningful moments. Her home was her refuge, especially during quiet Maritime winter snowfalls. She spent many peaceful hours in her sunroom reading her daily devotionals, listening to music, watching the birds, and enjoying the changing seasons. She had a genuine love for children and always took the time to listen and talk with them. A passionate Toronto Maple Leafs fan, she shared a special fandom with her late son, Stephen.
Hospitality was at the center of Agnes’ life. She took immense pride in her cooking, carefully curating her own recipes and planning elaborate menus for family gatherings. Her door was always open, and she made sure that no guest ever left her table hungry.
Agnes expressed her heart and love for her home through this poem she penned:
This kitchen has passed away,
But its colour will always be blue.
It will match my heart and also my tears;
Its nothing now without you.
The warmth of a firelog burning
Flames coaxing aromas along,
there was always something a -cookin’
But now everyone’s gone.
Though she will be deeply missed, the love, faith, and traditions Agnes shared will endure in the lives of those she touched.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Jones Family Funeral Centre at 70 Church Street, Amherst, Nova Scotia (902) 667-8777, where friends and family are invited to a time of visitation at the funeral home beginning at 5:00 PM, followed directly by a funeral service at 6:00 PM, on Saturday, July 25, 2026. A private burial will take place at the Fenwick Cemetery for immediate family.
Following the burial, a reception for family and close friends will be held back at the funeral home to gather and share memories.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Agnes may be made to the Philae Shriners c/o Cumberland Shrine Club.
Sharing of memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting the online memorial at www.jonesfamilyfuneralcentre.ca or through the Jones Family Funeral Centre Facebook page.