It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Laura Toney age 80 0f We’koqma’q First Nation, who passed away peacefully in the Cape Breton Regional Hospital on Sunday, June 28, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Born on March 5, 1946, she was the daughter of the late Andrew and Mary (Googoo) Bernard.

Laura had a deep love for Bingo; TV Bingo and she was an adventurous traveller. She enjoyed spending time at the We’koqma’q Gaming Centre and was well known for her unique sense of humour and playful spirit. She was an outgoing person, born with a heart of gold.

Laura is survived by her daughter, Beatrice Toney and son, Patrick Toney, both of We’koqma’q; sisters, Sarah Cope, Truro; Annabella Nicholas, Mary Josephine Googoo and Lucille Bernard, all of We’koqma’q; her brother, Alexander Bernard, We’koqma’q; her godchldren, Roger Googoo and Sandra “Draw” Bernard, both of We’koqma’q, Maynard Young, Eskasoni First Nation;  and numerous nieces and nephews and cousins.

Besides her parents, she was predeceased by infant daughter, Mary Elizabeth; sisters, Alice Bernard, Mary Helen Googoo, Harriet Nicholas, Bernice Bernard in infancy; her brothers, Harvey Bernard, Noel Michael Bernard, Jeffrey Bernard and Matthew Bernard.

Visitation will take place at the residence of Laura Toney, 177 Subdivision Rd., We’koqma’q First Nation on Saturday, July 4, 2026, beginning at 4 p.m..

Funeral mass will be held on Monday, July 6, 2026 at 10 a.m. in Blessed St. Kateri Parish, Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church, We’koqma’q First Nation with Father Joby Augustin officiating. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery. A salite will follow the burial.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Dennis haverstock Funeral Chapel, Whycocomagh. Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at www.haverstocks.com