Mary Margaret Theresa MacIsaac

The family of Mary Margaret Theresa MacIsaac is deeply saddened to announce her passing on Friday May 22, 2020, peacefully and from natural causes at the home of her niece Patsy, and Patsy’s husband, John Manolopoulos in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Theresa was an abiding presence in the lives of her family with a beautiful and constantly open heart. She was fearless, knew her own mind, was always open for political debate, and could disagree with people while still showing them love and respect. Her generosity toward others is one of the many lifelong legacies cherished by those who now mourn her loss. She will always be Aunt Theresa (Ta), a matriarch to her nieces and nephews, their children and grandchildren.

Born in Dunmore, Antigonish County, Theresa was a daughter of Margaret (nee Boyd of Fraser’s Mills) and Daniel Joseph MacIsaac of Dunmore, Antigonish County, Nova Scotia.

Theresa attended Dunmore School and continued her education at Mount St Bernard School for Girls in Antigonish Town. Upon completion of high school, she worked for the Bank of Nova Scotia in Antigonish before relocating to Halifax and gaining employment with The Bank of Montreal. After a few years, and in need of a new adventure, Theresa joined some close friends and took the train to Montreal to begin work with The Canadian National Railway. She later recalled many adventures while living in the city, including some mischievous deeds—which even now bring laughter and joy to her family—as they imagine her antics.

Eventually, Theresa began to miss her Nova Scotia family and so once again relocated to Halifax while maintaining a career with the Bank of Montreal until her retirement in 1983. She always spoke fondly of the many wonderful coworkers and clients she met and worked alongside over the course of her long career.

Theresa was an avid reader, so after retirement, it was no surprise when she joined The Book Room in Halifax as one of their staff. She loved every opportunity to meet and greet authors and publishers. An athlete and author she was thrilled to meet was Vladislav Tretiak, the Russian goaltender from the 1972 Canada - Russia hockey series, and she treasured her autographed copy of his book.

Theresa was supportive of her community, and volunteered with many organizations in Halifax including: The Canadian Institute for the Blind, Canadian Martyrs Roman Catholic Church, and Saint Benedict Parish. Theresa was a woman of great sensitivity and empathy, and will be greatly missed.

Theresa was predeceased by her sisters Anne Brown, Marcella MacLellan, and brother Ronald.

Theresa is survived by her sister Regina (Gina) Jones, Halifax, sister-in-law June MacIsaac (nee Young) St. Andrews, along with well over 50 nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

In lieu of flowers donations to Feed Nova Scotia in memory of Theresa would be appreciated.

Theresa had prearranged for her body to be donated to Dalhousie Medical School. However, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, this was no longer possible and cremation has taken place. A celebration of Theresa’s life will take place at St. Andrew’s Church in Antigonish County at a later date.

Finally, the extended family wishes to express sincere gratitude to Patsy and John who welcomed Theresa to their Halifax home and provided the most loving care in her final years. The family will be forever grateful for their kindness.

Rest in Peace Theresa - May God Continue to Bless You in Heaven.