Mary Teresa MacDonald

It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Mom and Gram, Mary Teresa MacDonald, 97, peacefully at home in Birch Grove, surrounded by her family, on October 11, 2022. Firstborn to the late Malcolm Allan and Annie Isabell (Shaw) MacDonald on September 3, 1925 in Glace Bay, and predeceased by husband John Arthur (Art) in 2002.

Mary is survived by her devoted children, Jennifer (Gerry) Lunn, Middle Sackville; John Barry (Erin), Red Deer, Alberta; Leslie, Glace Bay; Heather (Jim) Sophocleous, Georges River; and by her darling grandchildren, Tristan (Jennifer) MacDonald; Kendra MacKenzie; Christian, Breagh, and Kiera Lunn; Alexander and Harrison MacDonald; Kathleen (Darrell) Foster Crouse; Stephanie (Jeff) Lewis and Jonathan Sophocleous; dear great-grandchildren Ella Publicover, Eden Foster Crouse, and Lucas MacKenzie; brothers Gordon(Patricia) MacDonald, and Alexander MacDonald.

Also left to mourn are many nieces and nephews about whom she spoke fondly. Held especially dear to her heart are nieces April (Carl) Spatola, Ramona Anthony, Anne Anthony; cousins Vangie Faraday, Jovita Colvin, Margaret Rose French, Jimmy (Marg) MacDonald; loving friends Natoli (Rob) Hayashi, Ashley MacDearmid; treasured neighbours, Stanley and Trudy MacKenzie, Wilma Butts.

Growing up in Port Morien, Mary left to serve in the Women’s Royal Canadian Naval Service (Wrens) during WW2. She was a member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 55 and Branch 3. After the war, Mom worked in Massachusetts and Toronto, then returned home to marry and raise her family- her pride and joy.

A keen interest in reading and current affairs meant she always had something insightful to add to a conversation. Mary’s interest in widening her education led to completion of courses in home nursing as a young mother; culinary skills, and several academic courses at University College Cape Breton.

Many were fed by Mary’s good cooking over the years- both in the community and at home. It was never too much trouble to prepare a full meal for someone who’d stopped by. All were warmly welcomed.

Predeceased as well by her cherished grandparents John D. and Mary MacDonald; brothers Joseph, Malcolm, Leroy, Raymond, Angus, Hilary, George; sisters Isabell, Carmella; cousins Gertrude Lewis, Ian (Effie) MacIntosh; and many dear friends.

The family would like to express sincere gratitude to the many compassionate professionals who cared for Mom, including the VON; nursing staff of 4B; EHS staff; Doctors J. Archibald, M. Ryan, J. Lazovskis, M. Earnst, and A.G. Burns.

In accordance with Mary’s wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral. A private Committal Service will take place at Black Brook Cemetery in the near future.

Online condolences may be left at www.Pattenfuneral.com.

Rest now Mom, your exceptional work is done. You were the heart of our family and so will always live in our hearts.