Robert Barrie MacNeill

It is with profound sadness, we the family of Barrie MacNeill of Halifax, Nova Scotia announce his passing on Monday August 7th, 2023 after a brief illness. Barrie was the beloved son of the late Len and Hester MacNeill. There is comfort in knowing he is now in their loving embrace. We as a family have fond memories of being in Musquodobit Harbour with Barrie as he mowed grass or did any job he could to help his Mom and Dad. Barrie has one sibling Charis, with whom he was always close and they lived by the pact that they would always ‘have each other’s back’.

Barrie and his wife Mary met in their university days, knowing quickly that they had a future together and would become a solid team. Barrie was all about family, a devoted Dad to his children Ian, Timothy and Aimée. Barrie was tireless in his efforts to give the best he had to his children, supported their endeavours and was always proud of their accomplishments.

His grandchildren Joshua, Caelee, Madison and Lennox were his ‘Pot of Gold’. Poppa cherished them dearly and was so happy to meet his newest grandchild Mateo just hours after his birth on July 28th.

Barrie settled into his wife Mary’s large Cape Breton family and soon became a beloved member. Barrie opened the home to family members who traveled for medical help or just a fun weekend in the city. Taking family members to appointments, shopping, anywhere and everywhere, ready to be there in every way for Mary’s family.

Barrie’s career in the insurance industry spanned 42 years, beginning with his brother-in-law Ray Blakeney at Fastfair Claims Service. Barrie went on to work with Aetna, Allstate, and Travellers rising in the ranks through various positions. He retired from Economical Insurance Company in 2019 after 27 years of service, enjoying his time as a litigation specialist the most.

Barrie is lovingly survived by his wife of 44 years Mary (Jenkins). Son Ian (Kristen) and their family Joshua, Caelee, and Camryn. Son Timothy (Nicole) and their family Madison, Lennox and Mateo. Daughter Aimee (Cory). Sister Charis (Ray) Blakeney and their family, son Scott and his children, Liam, Jayda and Carter, son Mark and daughter Charneill (Jason) and their son Maddox. Brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Louise Jenkins, Victor and Judy Jenkins, Paul and Jeannie Jenkins, Dominica and Carl MacIntyre, Perky Jenkins, Greg McInnis, Louise and Francis MacKinnon, Madonna Mitchell, Rose Jenkins, Debbie and Fred Tobin. Barrie and Fred became especially close and truly were like brothers. Best pal Ronnie Thibault and close friend Keith Barrie. Also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Barrie was predeceased by parents Leo Benedict and Hester MacNeill, parents-in-law Walter and Gena Jenkins, and dearest cousins David Noonan and Michael Atton. Brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Nick and Mary Viva, Skip Jenkins, Louie and Mary Jenkins, Joe and Betty Jenkins, Ann and Harvey Clarkson, Viva McInnis, Joe Mitchell, and Shirley and Wayne Adams. Beloved nephews Aaron Tobin and Steven Jenkins and niece Laureen Jenkins, as well as many aunts and uncles.

J. A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax will be arranging services with visitation on Monday August 14th from 5-8pm. A Celebration of Life service will be held on August 15th at 10am. A private family burial will follow the service. Family flowers only. Donations in Barrie’s memory can be made to any charity of choice.

Words of comfort can be sent by visiting: www.jasnowfuneralhome.com