Kathleen "Kathie" Alyn MacDonald

Born June 13, 1957, in Halifax to Marian (nee Burns) and Ralph Sullivan, Kathie graduated from St. Patrick’s High School in 1975 and later became an ECG technician, working at the VG, IWK and Dartmouth General Hospital – a skill she proudly carried throughout her life. Kathie kept in touch with many of her close work friends and colleagues, even after retirement.

After losing her father at a young age, Kathie’s mother, Marian, remarried Doug Clarke. Their home on Dublin Street in Halifax’s North End was always full of life – six siblings, an open door, and a constant hum of laughter and activity. It was in this lively household that Kathie learned the values of family, resilience, and community that shaped her life.

Kathie’s life was filled with creativity and music. From cutting records with Ukeleles on Tour to sharing her voice with the Aeolian Singers, Kathie always found joy in music. Beyond music, her creativity found expression in rug hooking and countless hours spent laughing with her beloved “stitch and bitch” friends. These moments were more than hobbies—they were acts of love, weaving together friendships and memories that will endure. Her strength, courage, and compassion shone through in everything she did, teaching all who knew her the true meaning of kindness, community, faith, and resilience.

Golden Sands cottage #3 in Prince Edward Island was a happy place for Kathie, where countless summer days were spent with family and friends, laughter echoing across the Barachois Beach – a magical setting for unforgettable memories. It seemed like Kathie “knew everyone” – she never forgot a name, a face or a connection from her past. While it was sometimes difficult for Kathie to be out and about, visits to Al and Kathie’s warm Dartmouth home were frequent. Whether offering wise advice or a listening ear, Kathie always made time and held space for everyone.

From their grade 9 prom to their final goodbye, Kathie and Al shared a love that was pure and unwavering. Al could, in fact, “read her mind”. Al’s care and humour brought comfort through every challenge, and their laughter and memories will live on in all who knew them.

Kathie is survived by her husband of 45 years, Alastair MacDonald, and her children, Sarah MacDonald (Dan and Hannah Bergman), Luke MacDonald, and Cailin MacDonald (Emile and Clara Colpron). Her greatest joy was her family, especially her two granddaughters, Hannah and Clara who brought endless light to her life. Kathie is also survived by her siblings, Doug and Anne Clarke, Patricia and Steven O’Halloran, David and Linda Clarke, Don and Ann Clarke, and Jennifer and Derrick Hines. Kathie was an aunt and great-aunt to many. Kathie is predeceased by her mother Marian Clarke, and her fathers Ralph Sullivan and Doug Clarke.

Our family is deeply grateful to the specialists, doctors, nurses and healthcare teams who cared for Kathie with such compassion and dignity throughout her journey. Your kindness gave Kathie comfort and gave our family strength in moments when we needed it most. Special thanks to Dalhousie Student Health & Wellness Centre, Halifax Infirmary, Dartmouth General Hospital and the Northwood Homecare workers – many of whom became dear friends – for the gentle care and friendship you offered. We also hold a special place in our hearts for the ICU team at Dartmouth General Hospital, whose warmth, kindness and consideration brought comfort to Kathie and our family.

Visitation will be held at JA Snow Funeral Home (339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax), Friday, December 5 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. A service to honour and celebrate Kathie will be held in the same location on Saturday, December 6 at 10 a.m. All who loved Kathie are welcome to join us.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Kathie’s name to the Pulmonary Hypertension Association of Canada.

Her love was a quiet light that will guide us always, even as the stars take her home.