It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Catherine MacDonald at the age of 85. Her life was defined by love, friendship, and quiet strength.

Mary was a devoted wife, a caring and dedicated mother, and a proud grandmother and great-grandmother. Her family was the center of her world. In the Scottish/Inverness County tradition, she made a point to outline family connections and identify traits that defined a “John Sandy” and what made them proud and strong. Her love was constant, her support unwavering, and her presence a steady source of comfort and guidance.

She was also a cherished friend, known for her kindness, warmth, and genuine care for others. Mary found great joy in her weekly routines—gathering with friends for exercise, sharing laughter over a game of cards, and enjoying the simple pleasure of companionship. She appreciated life’s small joys, including listening to Scottish music, and sharing a good cup of tea with friends and family. She valued her independence and lived with grace, dignity, and a quiet resilience that inspired all who knew her.

Many will fondly remember Mary from her years at Creignish School, where she worked as a cleaner and playground supervisor. She was a familiar and comforting presence to generations of students, often surrounded by children calling out, “Mary, give me a push,” as she happily obliged with a smile. Over the years, her role grew, and she also took on the responsibility of driving the MacIsaac boys to Judique-Creignish Consolidated School, a task she carried out with great care and dependability.

Mary later continued her working life at the Port Hawkesbury Nursing Home, where she spent many years in the kitchen. There, she prepared countless meals, formed lasting friendships, and left a meaningful impression on both residents and staff. Her warmth and kindness were evident in every interaction, and her presence brought comfort to those around her.

Mary is survived by her loving husband, Jimmy; her children, Colin (Mary), Dianne (Greg) Campbell, Brian (Lisa), and Wayne (Cindy). She will be dearly missed by her grandchildren, Brandon (Shannon), Lyndsay (Chris), Emily (Addison), Rebecca (Jacob), Nicholas, Quinn, Lilly, Kieran, Caitlin, and Tess, and by her great-grandchildren, Ben, Ethan, Tucker, Nate, and Rhodes. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Richard Kellock, and her sister-in-law, Josephine Cassidy. She was predeceased by her parents, Colin and Annie MacDonald; her beloved sister, Catherine Kellock; and her adopted brother, Hughie MacDonald; beloved daughter-in-law, Janet MacDonald.

Mary’s legacy is one of love, kindness, and connection. She will be deeply missed by her family, her many friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. The family extends sincere thanks to Dr. J. Gillis, Dr. MacInnis, and Dr. DeRoche for their dedication, support, and care throughout Mary’s health journey. Heartfelt thanks are also extended to the nurses at Strait Richmond and St. Martha’s for their compassion and the excellent care she received. Donations can be made in Mary’s name to the Creignish Recreation Center Arrangements are under the care of Dennis Haverstocks Funeral Home, Port Hawkesbury.

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 23, from 2–4 p.m. and 6–8 p.m. The funeral service will take place on Tuesday, March 24, at 11 a.m. at Stella Maris Roman Catholic Church, Creignish with Father Barrett Clare-Johnson officiating. Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at: www.haverstocks.com