It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dear and loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother, Mary Louise MacNeil, on August 20, 2023 at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital surrounded by her loving family.
Born in Point au Gaul, NF, she was the daughter of the late John Henry Hillier and Harriet King. As a young woman, determined to build a life of her own, she left her hometown for Sydney where she met her beloved husband, Reginald MacNeil. Together, they began a long and loving journey, Reginald working at United Farmer’s Co-op, and Mary spending many years working at Sears Clearance Center, where she made several lifelong friendships. Mary was a very hardworking woman, who dedicated her time to her family. She was humble about her own achievements, and fiercely proud of her children and grandchildren. She spent most of her life caring for the needs of others, never asking for, or expecting anything in return. Not a person to complain, she never wavered on her positive outlook on life, constantly inspiring others with her selflessness, courage, and wisdom. An active member of St. Theresa’s parish, Mary’s faith was a guiding principle to how she lived her life. Mary was also a member of the Pensioners Club, where she enjoyed bowling, dancing and socializing. Mary loved spending time with her family, her home being the center of many family gatherings, where she took great pleasure in cooking and baking for all. In her spare time, Mary enjoyed playing cards and going for Sunday drives around Cape Breton.
Memories of Mary will forever be cherished by her five children, Adrian (Belle); Kevin, Halifax; Paul, Mary MacKenzie, Sheila (Doug)Nicholson, Port Alberni, BC; sister-in-law, Melinda Hillier, Fortune, NL. She is also survived by her loving grandchildren; Breanne (Alex), Christopher, Andrew, Allison and great grandchild, Leo. Besides being predeceased by her parents and loving husband, Reg, she is also predeceased by son-in-law, Gerard MacKenzie and brothers, Otto and Abraham Hillier.
Visitation for Mary will be held on Thursday, August 24th from 2-4 and 7-9pm at TW Curry Parkview Chapel. A Funeral Mass will be held the following day on Friday, August 25th at 11am at St. Theresa's Church in Sydney, Fr. Joe MacKenzie to officiate, with reception to follow at TW Curry Parkview Chapel. For those unable to attend, the Funeral Mass will be livestreamed via TW Curry's facebook page Burial will take place in Resurrection Cemetery in Sydney Forks. To share memories and condolences please visit www.twcurry.com.
