Mary Anna May Florence (O'Keefe) MacDonald

It is with heartfelt sorrow that we share the news of the passing of our cherished mother, Mary MacDonald. She peacefully departed this world at Lakeridge Health on April 3rd, 2025, at the remarkable age of 92. A devoted mother to eight children and a beloved grandmother to thirteen grandchildren, Mary was surrounded by her family during her final moments, surrounded by love and cherished memories. Her legacy of strength and compassion will forever resonate in our hearts.

Throughout her life, Mary was a beacon of love and support for countless people. She embraced many roles: daughter, sister, wife, sister-in-law, mother, aunt, Nana, and friend. With a heart of gold, Mary consistently prioritized the well-being of others, always ready to offer a listening ear or a warm hug. Rather than seeking her happiness, she dedicated herself to bringing joy to those around her. Her captivating blue eyes sparkled with kindness, her infectious laugh could lift anyone's spirits, and her smile had the remarkable ability to brighten any room she entered.

We honor the remarkable life of Mary MacDonald, a Business School graduate who made significant contributions during her career with Household Finance and Retail Business. As a devoted and passionate former President of the Catholic Women's League, Mary truly exemplified the spirit of community and service. She actively engaged in impactful door-to-door campaigns, tirelessly advocating for vital causes such as the Canadian Cancer Society, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, and the Arthritis Society Canada.

Mary was Bernard Mac Donald’ s cherished wife for 63 wonderful years until his passing in 2018. She was a devoted mother to Bernice (Allan), Joseph (predeceased), Michael (Maureen), Ann Marie, Margaret (Udo), Jo-Anne, Bernie (Natalie), and John (Kim Mai). Her legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Sean, Evan, Maeve, Aedan, Taylor, Udo, Tess, Claire, Alexandre, Quinn, Reid, Emma, and Kate, who will forever carry her love in their hearts.

Mary is survived by her dear sister, Cecilia Grace (née O'Keefe) of California, her nephew Darrell (Shannon), and her sister-in-law, Gloria Youden (Brud) of Cape Breton. She was predeceased by her devoted parents, Joseph and Margaret O'Keefe (née McInnis) of Cape Breton, who instilled in her the values of love, faith, and perseverance. Her cherished sisters-in-law who predeceased her—Irene Le Fort and Marie Walsh from Antigonish, Nova Scotia; Catherine MacLellan and Kay MacDonald from East Bay, Cape Breton; and Margaret Paruch and Refina MacNeil from Sydney, Nova Scotia—were truly remarkable women who played significant roles in her life.

Likewise, her beloved brothers-in-law, John MacDonald and Norman MacDonald from East Bay, Cape Breton, also left an indelible mark on her heart. She is profoundly remembered and celebrated by a wide-reaching network of nieces and nephews, who carry forward her legacy of love.

Join us in celebrating Mary's life at Oshawa Funeral Home, located at 847 King Street West, Oshawa, ON L1J 2L4, on Wednesday, April 9th, 2025, from 3 to 8 p.m. A heartfelt Mass will be held at Saint Therese Roman Catholic Church, located at 3800 Courtice Rd, on Thursday, April 10th, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, we invite you to make a memorial donation to the Cancer Society of Canada, as Mom was a two-time cancer survivor. Your kindness will help continue her legacy of love, hope, and generosity.

Livestream Link: https://ipickart.com/stream/AnnaMacDonald/