It is with broken hearts that we the family announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt; Mary Margaret (Reashor) MacNeil of Millville, surrounded by her family at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital on January 6, 2023. Mary was born in Bras d'Or on June 18, 1945. She was the daughter of the late Maurice Reashor, Bras d'Or, and Theresa (Arsenault) Reashor, Florence. Mary is survived by her loving husband of 56 years; John MacNeil Jr, who for many years cared for her in every way possible. She is also survived by her son Garry (Lisa) MacNeil, Millville, daughters Joy (Michael) McNeil, Alder Point and Judy (Danny) LeBlanc, Big Bras d'Or, grandchildren Krystal, Benjamin, Gabriel, Glen, Alisha, Shaelynn, and Kayla as well as seven great grandchildren. She is also survived by loving father-in-law John MacNeil Sr, sisters Yvonne (Cletus) Boudreau, Beverly (Larry) Keel, Debbie Fraser, Carol Jessome, brothers Joe (Loretta) Reashor, David (Diane) Reashor, Brian (Sherry) Reashor, Kevin (Linda) Reashor and Gerard (Vera) Reashor. Brother-in-law Lewis (Wanda) MacNeil, several nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, Mary was predeceased by her first-born son Paul "Glen" MacNeil whom she dearly missed every single day, mother-in-law Sadie MacNeil, brothers James and Wayne, brothers-in-law Clayton Fraser, lan Jessome and Thomas MacNeil and sister-in-law Maureen (Haley) MacNeil, Mary was a member of the St. John's United Church, Big Bras d'Or. Before starting a family Mary completed the cosmetology course and then she enjoyed going into the homes of many families and friends, as a hairstylist. During this time, she also worked at Jabalee's Grocery store in North Sydney. Then Mary stayed at home to raise her four children with so much love and support, always putting them first. Mary was a Girl Guide Leader as well. She ensured her family always had home cooked meals and baked goods, especially her homemade bread and rolls which were made by the dozens. The many friends and family that visited Mary would be sure to enjoy some fresh baking and a hot cup of tea. Later in life Mary returned to work at Eyking's store in Millville, then began working as a cook and eventually onto head cook at the Bonnie Jean restaurant in Seal Island for several years, even after it changed owners and became the Country Classic restaurant. She was a very dedicated and hard worker but had to give up her love for cooking due to her health issues. Mary always had a love for animals and had many family pets, but there were two who stole her heart, Logan and Lilly, whom she always referred to as her babies. When they were laid to rest her heart was broke she spoke of them daily. Spending time with her family was most important to her. She left such an impression on anyone who knew her and was a role model to her children and grandchildren whom she truly adored. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her, especially her family. A heartful thank you to Palliative care, the support and compassion was above and beyond, we will be forever grateful. We are most thankful to the CCA's for the daily care they provided her, she considered them all her friends. Also, a thank you to all the VON's.
