Jane Ellen O'Neill

Jane Ellen O’Neill, KC, age 54, passed away on February 21, 2026, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, after a long and courageous battle with mental illness.

Jane was born in Newcastle, New Brunswick, on September 24, 1971. She was the beloved daughter of Joe O’Neill (Pat) and Eva MacDonald. In addition to her parents, Jane is survived by her three children, Sam, Audrey, and Bridget Gregan; her partner, Dave Kowlessar; her brother, Peter O’Neill (Sheila); and her sisters, Sally Doyle (Steven), Mary O’Neill (Duncan), Ann MacDonnell (Troy), and sister-in law Barb O'Neill. She is also survived by her cherished nieces and nephews: Brian Doyle; Catherine Sherrard (Kurt); Alexander O’Neill (Anna);Connor O'Neill Dee (Sarah) Maggie O’Neill Dee (Eliot); William Melanson O’Neill (Amber); Sarah Melanson O’Neill; Jessie MacDonnell (Bradly); Patrick MacDonnell; and Cole Poirier (Vicky). Jane was predeceased by her brother, Donald O’Neill.

Jane was a gifted and brilliant lawyer who enjoyed a remarkable legal career. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from Saint Mary’s University in 1993 and her Bachelor of Laws from the University of New Brunswick in 1996. She articled with the Federal Court of Canada, and she clerked for the Honourable Michel Bastarache at the Supreme Court of Canada before joining McInnes Cooper, where she spent many years as a highly respected partner of the firm.

Jane was widely admired for her exceptional ability to analyze and simplify complex legal issues—an ability few could rival. She embraced her role as an advocate and was truly in her element when litigating on behalf of her clients.

While Jane influenced the outcomes of many significant legal cases, her greatest professional impact was on the people she mentored. Through her guidance, friendship, and generosity of spirit, she helped shape the careers of many lawyers. Never one for pretense or formality, Jane had a natural ability to lead and put people at ease. She rejected hierarchy and treated everyone with humility and respect.

Jane’s contributions extended beyond her legal practice. She gave back generously to her profession and her community, serving as an active volunteer with the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society, including service on Council. She was also a lifelong champion of the Liberal Party, contributing her insight, talents, and advice whenever called upon.

Although Jane’s professional accomplishments were significant, it was her role as a mother that defined her most deeply. Her life’s mission was to ensure her children experienced the world through laughter, music, education, adventure, and—above all—through a mother’s unwavering love. She taught them the value of hard work, meaningful friendships, resilience, respect for people from all walks of life, and humility.

Jane’s legacy lives on through her children, her family, her friends, and her colleagues. The ripples of her life are wide-reaching and enduring.

Funeral: Friday, February 27 at 1:30 pm

        St.Thomas Aquinas Church

        1725 Oxford St. Halifax, NS

Officiated by Father Duncan McMaster.

Reception to follow after the mass in the church hall, hosted by McInnes Cooper.

There will be a Celebration of Life for Jane in Miramichi, NB followed by a burial later in the spring

In lieu of flowers, donations to your local food bank would be appreciated.

Join Livestream at : https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=b1fac367-faca-431c-a3b5-2fd62246fbf2