Lillian Mary (Billard) James, born March 22, 1928, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026, at the age of 97, with her family by her side. She was predeceased by her husband Arthur and son David; parents George and Olive (Nelson); her brothers George, Lawrence, and Harlan.

Lillian leaves behind a lifetime of love, devotion, and cherished memories. She began her working life in the Moir's office, where she met her beloved husband, Arthur. From there, she dedicated herself to raising their four children, a role she embraced wholeheartedly. When her children were grown, she shared her time and kindness through volunteer work at the IWK Hospital and was also employed at Birk’s.

Family was Lillian's greatest passion. A devoted and nurturing mother, grandmother, and great‑grandmother, she guided her family with gentleness, patience, and wisdom. Her home was filled with warmth, and she will be fondly remembered for her delicious peanut butter balls, homemade bread, brownies, preserves, and the many meals she crafted with love—recipes and traditions passed proudly through the generations.

Lillian had many hobbies that brought joy to her life. She bowled in a league for many years, and she delighted in knitting, cross‑stitch, cribbage, and canasta. Ever curious and eager to keep her mind active, she completed crossword puzzles and, even in her later years, embraced technology—enjoying Wordle, Scrabble, surveys, and social media!

Throughout her 97 years, Lillian witnessed tremendous changes in the world and welcomed each innovation with an open and adaptable spirit. She loved sports, especially curling, hockey, and the Olympics, and she was a dedicated Toronto Maple Leafs fan.

Lillian was a kind and gentle soul whose guiding presence shaped the lives of all who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed by her children John (Jane)- Bedford, Jennifer (Paul)- Bedford, Ruth (Derrick) -Ingramport; her nine grandchildren, twelve great‑grandchildren, three step‑grandchildren, and six step-great-grandchildren. Her sister, Nova (Gibb)Gordon, Powell River, BC; brother Vince (Ruby); sister‑in‑law Penny Billard; and many nieces and nephews.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Veterans Memorial Hospital 3E staff for their unwavering care and compassion. They also offer sincere thanks to the dining room, nursing/cleaning/maintenance staff at Parkland Clayton Park for the kindness shown to Lillian throughout her time there.

Cremation has taken place under the care of Ettinger Funeral Homes, Shubenacadie, Nova Scotia. A celebration of Lillian’s life will be held at Parkland, 116 Fairfax Drive, in the Garden Pavilion, on February 7, 2026, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Donations in Lillian’s memory may be made to Feed Nova Scotia. 

Tributes, words of comfort and memories of Lillian may be shared with the family at www.ettingerfuneralhome.com