Heather Isabelle Fullerton
1953-2026
Heather Isabelle Fullerton, 73, of Hillsborough, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2026, at The Moncton Hospital, with her loving family by her side after a lengthy illness. She was surrounded by the people she loved most, and by the love she had so freely given throughout her life. Born on January 30, 1953, she was the daughter of the late Lionel and Sybil (Reynolds) Strong.
Heather dedicated her career to education. After attending St. Thomas University, she became a teacher and last taught at Caledonia Regional High School, where she remained until her retirement. As a Home Economics teacher, she taught her students far more than cooking and sewing, she taught life skills, confidence, and self-reliance. Known for her wonderful sense of humour and warm personality, Heather's classroom was often the one students hoped to be in. She had a gift for making learning enjoyable and left a lasting impression on countless young people over the years. Her love of mentoring extended beyond the classroom. The Brownie, Girl Guide and Pathfinder movements held a special place in her heart, and she devoted many years to the programs and earned her Gold Cord. It encouraged young girls, helping them develop confidence, friendships, and lifelong memories.
Heather also enjoyed curling and spent many happy years at both the Beaver Curling Club and the Fundy Curling Club. It was through curling that she met Blake, the man who would become her husband, best friend, and partner in life. Together they built a marriage filled with love, laughter, and companionship. They truly were two peas in a pod, enjoying life side by side through every season. Their greatest joy came when they welcomed two sons into their family. Heather was a devoted and loving mother who was always there with encouragement, wisdom, and unwavering support. Through every triumph and challenge, she stood by her boys, offering advice with a smile and never a hint of judgment. She was incredibly proud of the men they became.
Heather and Blake took great pride in their home and property. Whether inside or out, everything was cared for with love and attention. Heather especially loved flowers, and her beautiful gardens were admired by all who passed by on Taylor's Lane. Her creativity and care could be seen in every bloom.
Photography was another passion that brought her great joy. Over the years, she helped preserve countless special moments for others, photographing many weddings and celebrations throughout the community. She understood the value of memories and took pride in helping others capture life's most treasured occasions.
Christmas was another of Heather's great passions. She and Blake delighted in decorating their home each year, turning it into a warm and festive wonderland. What may have started as a shared love of the season became a friendly challenge to see just how many decorations could fit into the house. Always beautifully done and full of holiday spirit, their home became a place of welcome and celebration, generously opened to family and friends for Christmas gatherings and festivities.
Although Heather faced declining health in recent years, her spirit never faded. She continued to meet life's challenges with strength, grace, and her trademark sense of humour. She always seemed to have a joke, a witty comment, or a funny story ready to brighten someone's day. Heather never sought attention for herself and preferred to handle difficulties quietly and in her own way.
During those challenging years, she found comfort and purpose through painting and handcrafts. What began as a way to cope with pain soon revealed an incredible artistic talent. Her creativity flourished on canvas, producing beautiful works that reflected both her resilience and her gift for seeing beauty in the world around her.
Faith was an important part of Heather's life. She grew up in St. James Anglican Church, where the foundation of her faith was formed. Later, she became an active and cherished member of Hillsborough United Church. Even when health challenges made attending in person difficult, Heather remained involved, serving as a virtual greeter through Facebook and welcoming everyone with the same warm smile and kind spirit that made people feel at home.
Just this past Christmas, Heather received a special gift that brought her endless joy, a puppy named Skye. As an animal lover, Blake had always shared his affection with every pet that came into their lives, and Heather often joked that she wanted a dog who would love her more than she loved her husband. With the arrival of little Skye, she happily declared that her wish had finally come true. The two quickly formed a special bond, and Skye brought comfort, companionship, laughter, and countless smiles during the past few months. He truly brightened her days and became a cherished part of her family.
Above all else, Heather's family was her greatest priority and her proudest accomplishment. She would want those she loved to continue supporting one another and finding comfort in the many wonderful memories they shared. Her legacy lives on in the laughter, kindness, and countless stories that will be told for years to come.
"A mother's love is the thread that weaves a family together, and though she may be gone from sight, that thread remains unbroken."
Heather was deeply grateful for the love and care provided by her family, especially as her mobility became more limited. She also treasured the faithful friendship of Edith and Michael Land, whose weekly visits brought laughter, companionship, and much happiness. Those visits became highlights of her week and were a source of great comfort and joy.
Heather will be lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
She will be deeply missed by her husband Blake; sons, Mitchell Fullerton and Martin Fullerton both of Hillsborough; her special pup, Skye; brother, Larry Strong (Florence) of Moncton and her dear sister-in-law, Lana Wilbur of Riverview, who became not only family but a treasured friend. She will also be missed by her nieces, nephews and all her extended family, good friends and church family.
Besides her parents she was predeceased by her sisters, Sheila Neil and Sandy Allain.
There will be a Memorial Service to celebrate her life at the Hillsborough United Church on Thursday Evening at 6:30pm with Rev. Tara Ann Gourson officiating. A time of visitation will be held an hour prior to the service from 5:30-6:30pm. Following the service there will be time of further fellowship, sharing of memories and refreshments in the church reception area.
For those who wish donations to the Nursing Homes Without Walls Program would be greatly appreciated by the family.
Arrangements are in the care of the Albert County Funeral Home, 4130 route 114, Hopewell Cape, NB, E4H-3K2 506-734-2780