Clara Isabel MacLellan

Isabel was born in Centreville, Inverness County, NS on August 10, 1936, the daughter of the late James and Margaret (MacMaster) MacLellan. She entered the Congregation of Notre Dame in 1955 and made First Vows in 1957.

Sister Isabel walked faithfully in God’s ways, giving of herself fully to the ministry of liberating education. She began her teaching career in Pictou at Stella Maris School and continued from there to Summerside, New Glasgow and Larry’s River. In 1964 Sister Isabel moved to Mount Saint Bernard and for the next 49 years generously and graciously shared life with the folks of Antigonish.

Sister taught the elementary students both in the classroom and as a reading specialist where she was known for her gentle but steady presence. After retiring from teaching, she continued to give of herself in various ministries at Mount Saint Bernard, St. Ninian’s Parish, and, eventually, moving to Acadia Street where her focus was on outreach to the university students.

Sister Isabel’s final years were spent at St. Joseph’s Convent, Mabou and Holy Redeemer Convent, Sydney sharing in the ministry of hospitality and the CND Health Care Center where she focused on intercessory prayer and personal presence. Sister Isabel valued connecting with others be it visits to Cape Breton for family gatherings, offering a kind, friendly presence to the young women at the Mount, finding many hidden and unassuming ways to be present to her CND sisters and, especially, the regular nightly game of cards. We give thanks and will continually be inspired by Isabel’s qualities of hospitality and faithfulness that marked her life.

Sr. Isabel is survived by her sisters Elizabeth Beaton (Angus deceased), Kaye Harrison (Kent deceased) and brother Donald (Paula). She was predeceased by brothers James (Mary), Allan (Monica), and sister Hughena (Roddie deceased). She is also survived by numerous loving nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. Her love for family and her genuine interest in their well being fostered the closeness she maintained with them throughout her life.

Visitation will be held Monday, November 24, 2025, 9:30 – 10:30 am at T W Curry Parkview Chapel followed by Mass of Christian burial at 11:00 am at St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Church with Fr. Bill Burke officiating. Interment will take place at Resurrection Cemetery, Sydney Forks. To view the service, or to leave a memory or condolence for her family, please visit www.twcurry.com.