We the family, announce with sadness in our hearts, the passing of our dear mother Rhodena Elizabeth MacDonald, on Jan 24th surrounded by love at home. She was born to the late Allan J. and Mary C. MacNeil of Christmas Island on Aug 12, 1927.
Her greatest joy in life was taking care of her family, providing a warm, welcoming environment for all who found their way to her doorstep, often greeted with a smile and a delicious home cooked meal. She loved drawing, tole painting, knitting and crocheting.
Rhodena was a dedicated and compassionate Registered Nurse, graduating in 1949 and working mainly at St. Rita’s hospital until her retirement in 1983. She enjoyed attending family gatherings and was very proud of her Cape Breton heritage, she especially enjoyed Cape Breton music. She was a devoted Catholic all her life, attending mass when able or tuning in on TV.
We the family would like to extend a thank you to Allan J. for his unwavering support and constant care for Mom the past number of years. Also to the homecare workers and VON who provided care to Mom. Special thank you to Dr. Greg Myatt and staff.
Rhodena is survived by her children; Roddie (Anita), Rochelle (Robert) Johnson, Allan J., Gerald (Debbie), Ann (Duncan) MacIntyre, grandchildren; Vanessa, R.J., and Adrian, step grandchildren; Kayleigh, Ida Marie and Todd, sister Dolena MacDonald (late Cyril), sister in law Florence MacNeil as well as many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
Aside from her parents, Rhodena is predeceased by her husband Gerald Sam, siblings; Anna Mae (Danny), Libby (Daniel), Heckie (Mabel), Angie (Leona), Neilie (Marilyn), Josie (John), John C. (Shirley) Roy and Brother-in-law Sam (late Mary) MacDonald.
Visitation will be held on Fri, Jan 27th at TW Curry Parkview Chapel in Sydney, from 2-4pm and 7-9pm. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Sat, Jan 28th at Our Lady of Fatima church in Sydney River at 11am, Fr. Conrad Edwards officiating. Burial will take place at Christmas Island on a later date. For those unable to attend, the service will be livestreamed via TW Curry’s facebook page. To share memories and condolences please visit www.twcurry.com.
