Mazie Kathleen McKay

Mazie was born in Grosse Île, Magdalen Islands, Quebec to Vernie (Dickson) and Austin McKay on December 10, 1926. She was the third of twelve children they would have and at an early age, it was evident she would become the familial “glue” of the McKays.

At a very young age, she left the Magdalen Islands for Truro, Nova Scotia, where she lived with her maternal grandmother. It was her dedication to her ailing sister Isabel, that motivated her to travel to Montreal at the age of 16. There was never any concern of where she would live or what she would do, because her family needs were always at the forefront of her actions.

As friends moved away from Montreal, Mazie knew this was where she wanted to live her life and build her career. And Mazie lived her life to the fullest!

She started working for the T. Eaton Company Limited in the early 1940s in the Cashier’s Office, where she built her reputation for hard work, dedication and leadership. Over four decades, she developed the expertise required to open the new cash offices for Eaton’s and train their staff, transferring her skills to the newer Eaton generations. After 45 years of dedicated service, the T. Eaton company celebrated her career achievements with style, reflecting their deep appreciation for her commitment over those decades. Mazie was a proud employee and is remembered as one of the iconic "anglaises" of Eaton’s.

Mazie was, first and foremost, dedicated to her family and her homestead, returning to the Magdalen Islands every summer to reconnect with those she loved. Over eight decades, she made it her priority to return “home” and strengthen these bonds, while creating heartfelt connections with the newer generations.

A legacy is defined as the long-lasting impact of a person’s life. And Mazie has left her imprint on everyone who has ever been with her. From family members to the hundreds of children who called her “auntie,” to her colleagues, friends and acquaintances, Mazie let you know you meant the world to her.

Mazie quickly claimed her house of faith at Trinity Memorial Anglican Church in NDG, around the corner from her home at Vendôme and Sherbrooke, where she lived for more than 65 years. She was a devoted parishioner right up to its closure in 2017 and helped to manage the Thrift Store that ran out of the basement. She found great joy from meeting new people, embracing them in a hug and leaving them with a sense of being recognized and appreciated. She role-modelled a life where you treat others with the same respect you wish to be treated with.

In Mazie’s eyes, “we are all God’s children.”

Mazie volunteered at Saint Margaret’s, among other organizations, and always sought to bring good cheer to those who were less fortunate. When she was in a position to give to others, she stood at the front of the line. Until Covid, Mazie was an active member of Contactivity Centre, where she would attend regularly to enjoy activities with her peers. Mazie blossomed when gathered with those she cared about.

A larger than life figure, she loved to host dinner parties in her apartment, most often when there was standing room only. Her vibrancy, enthusiasm, passion for life and let’s not forget her colourful wardrobe ensured she stood out in a crowd. She didn’t seek attention; people were drawn to her. Her kindness was well known, as was her ability to have fun wherever she was. She never hesitated to accept an invitation, because life is meant to be lived and enjoyed.

Mazie’s passing has left a void in many a heart.

Mazie leaves behind her sister Doris Moses and her two brothers, Bruce McKay (Micheline) and Louis McKay (Gail). She also leaves countless nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews. Those she loved became family to her and as such, she leaves an ocean of loved ones who will forever be grateful to have had Mazie in their life.

Mazie is predeceased by her parents and eight of her siblings: Edna, Donald, Isabel, Arthur, Lizzie, Reta, Charles and Melba.

The family would like to thank her long-time friends for their devotion and kindness to Mazie during these latter years. Specifically, Brian Davies, who managed her affairs, and Cathy Mouledoux, who gave Mazie the gift of extra years in the comfort of her own surroundings.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 31 at the Collins Clarke MacGillivray White Funeral Home at 5610 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, Quebec H4A 1W5.

Visitation begins at 2 pm, with a funeral to follow at 3 pm. The service will be webcast for those who cannot attend in person.

Collins Clarke MacGillivray White will webcast the funeral ceremony of Mazie Kathleen McKay on Saturday, August 31, 2024 from 2:50 PM EDT to 4:25 PM EDT. You can view the ceremony live or on replay at https://funeraweb.tv/en/diffusions/97067

A burial service will follow at a later date, where Mazie’s ashes will be brought home to the Holy Trinity Anglican Cemetery in Grosse Île, Magdalen Islands, where she will be laid to rest with those who passed before her.

Donations in memory of Mazie McKay can be made to Contactivity Centre https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/centre-contactivite-inc/

and the Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Grosse Île, Magdalen Islands https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/holy-trinity-anglican-church-grosse-ile/