Kathleen Lorraine Matthews

Kathleen Lorraine Matthews, age 68, of Dartmouth, passed away peacefully at the Victoria General Hospital on May 17, 2026, with her family by her side. Born in Halifax, Kathleen was the beloved daughter of the late Clayton and Hilda Matthews. In her younger years, Kathleen could often be found spending time with her brothers and sisters, or rescuing every animal she could find. Animals, especially dogs and horses—were among her greatest passions. She spent a significant amount of time training award winning show dogs. She also loved writing songs including recording her own single, memories she cherished throughout her life. Kathleen had an incredibly big heart and believed that love was never measured by material things, but by the kindness and warmth carried within a person! Her home was always open to anyone in need, and everyone who walked through her door was treated like family. She would never let someone go without, even if it meant sacrificing for herself. The way she connected with both people and animals was truly something special and deeply admired by all who knew her. Especially by her two daughters, who have carried that legacy throughout their own lives. Throughout her life, Kathleen wore many hats and embraced every challenge with determination and spirit. Her many roles included farmer, DJ, and entrepreneur, among others. In recent years, she enjoyed retirement from the world of computer technology and filled her days with swimming, writing, crafts, jewelry making, and spending treasured time with family and friends. Of all her accomplishments, Kathleen was most proud of her two daughters, Cherie and Amber. She spoke of their successes to everyone she met, and nothing brought her greater joy than being their mother, albeit, with a little bit of trepidation for their adventurous spirits. Kathleen was predeceased by her sister Donna and her husband Don. She will be forever loved and deeply missed by her family, daughters, Cherie and Amber; siblings Terry, Heather, Darrell, Sue, Dianne; nephews Mike and Tony; nieces Jennifer, Chantal, Nikki, and Karen; as well as many extended family members and friends whose lives she touched with her kindness and generosity. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to a local SPCA or to the Canadian Cancer Society. The family would also like to extend heartfelt thanks to the nurses and doctors at the Victoria General Hospital, and the Halifax Infirmary for the compassionate care they provided. Kathleen was truly one of a kind and irreplaceable in every sense. The memories shared, the lessons she taught, and the love she gave so freely will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Kathleen Lorraine Matthews

December 31, 1957 - May 17, 2026