Obituary of Rachel Mary MacInnis

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Rachel Mary MacInnis (Robinson), affectionately known as Rae, at the age of 93, on Monday, November 11, 2024, at Cape Breton Regional Hospital in Sydney, Nova Scotia. Rachel had been a long-time resident of Alderwood Rest Home in Baddeck, Nova Scotia, and her passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of her family and all who knew her.

Born on November 17, 1930, in Orangedale, Nova Scotia, Rachel was the cherished daughter of Colin Robinson and Mamie (Robertson) Robinson. Raised in the small community of Alba, Cape Breton, she spent her early years in the embrace of her loving family. In 1953, she married Malcolm MacInnis of Little Narrows, and together they built a life filled with love, devotion, and adventure.

As the proud mother of eight children, Rachel was the heart of their family, managing the household with kindness and grace. Later in life, when her children were grown, she worked as an office cleaner at Little Narrows Gypsum Company.

Rachel was a deeply committed member of her community. She was actively involved in the Presbyterian Church in Little Narrows, the Women’s Missionary Society, the Ladies Aid Society, and The Eastern Star, where she dedicated herself to the service of others. She had a profound appreciation for her Scottish and Gaelic heritage, often attending concerts and events that celebrated her cultural roots. Travel was also a great passion of Rachel’s; she journeyed to Scotland, Alaska, Hawaii and many points in between. She also enjoyed many family visits to Alberta and Ontario. Whether by cruise ship or car, Rae was always ready for the next adventure.

Rachel was predeceased by her beloved husband Malcolm, who passed away after 51 years of marriage, as well as her sons Cecil and Calvin, grandson Steven, granddaughters Kristen, Janice, and Julia, who were lost in infancy, and her beloved cousin, Angus Robinson.

She is survived by her children Wayne MacInnis(Calgary), Linda MacKenzie (Greg) of Whycocomagh, Melvin MacInnis (Cathy) of Whycocomagh, Darrell MacInnis (Charlotte) of Cobourg, Kevin MacInnis (Berna) of Calgary, and Darlene MacInnis (Frank) of Barra Glen. Rachel is also survived by her grandchildren: Stephanie, Karen (Jamie), Raymond (Angie), Jennifer, Jason(Angela), Jeffrey (Katie), Stephanie (Norman), Nicholas(Amy), Erika (Ryan), Keegan, Emily, and Liam, as well as her great-grandchildren: Saige, Riley, Chloe, Samantha, Camryn, Benjamin, Rachel, Emelia, and Riley.

Rachel’s legacy of love, kindness, and her adventurous spirit will continue to inspire her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. She moved through life with quiet strength and gentle grace, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Alderwood Rest Home for their exceptional care and support during Rachel's final years.

A funeral service to celebrate Rachel's life will be held at Little Narrows Presbyterian Church on Monday, November 18th, at 2:00 pm, officiated by Rev. Lydia MacKinnon. Visitation will be from 11:00 am to 1:15 pm, with a tribute by The Eastern Star at 1:15 pm. Burial will follow at Little Narrows Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Rachel’s memory to the Little Narrows Presbyterian Church or a charity of your choice.

Rachel will be deeply missed, but her love and legacy will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at www.haverstocks.com