Beloved daughter, granddaughter, niece, cousin, aunt and friend, Rachel Madeline Cecilia Cumby Whalen, left this world unexpectedly at 29 years young on January 13th, 2023.

Rachel was born in St. John’s, NL on July 14th, 1993 to Jennifer Whalen and Kevin Cumby. Rachel gradated with a Political Science Degree in 2021 and was currently attending Memorial University Faculty of Social Work.

Rachel was a strong, independent, caring, compassionate and confident women. She was a bright light in the lives of those who knew her. She loved animals and children. She loved politics and was an avid reader. She loved to travel with her best friend, her mom. She also spent 2 months last year travelling independently around Europe, while making her childhood dreams come true.

Rachel loved her family fiercely and had a special bond with her nanny, Edna Whalen. When you think of Rachel, celebrate the good memories you have of her. Remember that life is fragile and should be lived to the fullest.

Rachel was predeceased by her Step Father, Michael White; her grandfather, Jesse Whalen, her aunt; Barbara Whalen, grandmother; Effie Cumby; uncle; Ed Cumby; and cousin, Natasha Reid.

Rachel leaves behind her parents; Jennifer Whalen and Kevin Cumby; grandmother, Edna Whalen; grandfather, Ted Cumby; step grandparents: Lloyd and Christie White; life-long friend, Juliana Macdonald; a large circle of cousins, aunts, uncles and friends and extended family in Cape Breton.

Rachels family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff of the Emergency Department at the Health Science Centre, thank you for trying so hard to keep Rachel with us.

Resting at Barrett’s Funeral Home, 328 Hamilton Avenue on Monday, January 23rd, 2023 from 1pm-9pm. For the last hour of the visitation family and friends are free to share their memories of Rachel. In lieu of flowers, donations in Rachels memory may be made to Hoppy Homes, the SPCA or a local charity of your choice.