Gail Diane MacNeil

Gail was many things in her life; she was a daughter, a sister, a wife, a mother, a grandmother, and a teacher. Each of these roles she carried out with love, dedication, and caring.

Gail was the daughter of the late Ed and Nina Henrich, and lived most of her life looking over the Northwest Arm, between Sydney and North Sydney. Her sibling Donna was more than a sister, she was a best friend, and a caregiver.

Gail is also survived by her husband of forty-five years, FX, her children Matthew (Jen) MacNeil, and Stephanie (Geoff) Spencer. She will also be greatly missed by her five grandchildren, Connor, Madeline, Kate, Leah and Ian. They were her pride and joy, providing her with endless love and entertainment.

Having spent over thirty years in the teaching profession as a resource teacher, a grade primary teacher, and a reading recovery teacher, she imparted to many students the life long gift of being able to read. She approached her job with true professionalism and a deep sense of caring for those whom she taught.

Gail loved to entertain, and she truly enjoyed the company and friendship of others. There was nothing better than to have people in for good food, good laughs and good times.

As a person of faith, she was an active member of Our Lady of Fatima parish in Sydney River, and that faith gave her strength and solace during her illness. By loving her family, loving the people around her, and loving her God, she had all her bases covered. May she rest in peace.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of TW Curry Parkview Chapel and cremation has taken place. By her request, there will be no visitation. Funeral mass will be at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Sydney River at 11am on Wednesday, December 23 with Fr. Patrick O’Neill officiating and will be lived streamed on TW Curry’s Facebook page for those wishing to attend virtually. All Covid-19 restrictions and protocols will be strictly adhered to. A gathering with friends and family to celebrate Gail’s life will be held at a later date when we can all come together safely.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cancer Patient Care Fund, Hospice Palliative Care Society, KidSport Nova Scotia, or to a charity of one’s choice.