John Hayes MacNeil

It is with a great sense of loss, we regretfully announce the passing of Hayes MacNeil, husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, grand-uncle and friend. Hayes died peacefully at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital on November 26, 2025 with family by his side.

Hayes was born into a close-knit family, the seventh of eight children, to parents Stephen Lawrence and Helen Celeste MacNeil of Sydney. He is survived by his loving wife, Elaine, his son Frank, daughter Ainslie (Tommy McNeil), and his three cherished grandchildren, Xavier, Rowan, and Riley. Also left to mourn are his sister Mary (Dr. Frank - deceased) Shea, and brothers Dugga (Florence - deceased), and Elwin (Jane). In addition, he will be deeply missed by his in-laws, Sister Marionita McNeil, Tommy and Eleanor Murphy, Patsy (Allan - deceased) McNeil, Gerald "Jake" McNeil, and Len (Anne) McNeil, along with many loving nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, sister Betty (Robert - deceased) Nicholson, and three brothers, Frank "Fa" (Dolly), Allister (Norma), and Vincent "Vink" (Etta - deceased), along with his nephew Rob MacNeil.

After Hayes graduated from St F.X., he began his career in Sydney as a classroom teacher. Further studies led to a Doctorate of Education (Ed.D) from the University of Tennessee. This was followed by several administrative posts resulting in his final position as CEO of the Cape Breton Regional School Board. He was always passionate and dedicated to any endeavour he undertook. His ability to think outside the box along with being very articulate made him a great problem solver. In addition, he was capable of acting decisively on issues that were controversial when he perceived a solution as fair and just.

In his retirement, he pursued other interests. He resumed his involvement with politics, served on the Canada Pension Commission, served two terms on the Board of Governors at Cape Breton University, was Chairman of the Sydney Airport Authority and served on the CBU Development Inc. Board. These were a testament to his desire to make a meaningful contribution to his community.

Sports were a constant throughout his life. As a participant or coach, he was involved in baseball, tennis, golf, fishing and hockey. However hockey was his principle focus. The pinnacle of his coaching career was when his 1968-69 Sydney Academy hockey team was inducted into the Cape Breton Sports Hall of Fame in 2024. Eventually, his happiest role was being a fan following his grandchildren in basketball and hockey.

Middle Cape was his favourite spot to spend summers. With family coming home from all directions, he loved to host get-togethers at the "bungalow" where much laughter and many stories were shared. Hayes was also blessed with many lifelong friends so parties and sing-songs were all part of the summer activities (and the other seasons as well). He had a remarkable memory for the words and rhythms of every song and tune whether it was country/western, celtic, folk or rock and roll and nobody loved to sing them more than he did. Dancing was part of his repertoire and square dances were always top of the list.

Hayes' greatest priority was his family. He was a devoted and loyal husband to Elaine who was a constant source of support to him. He took great pride in all of the accomplishments of his children and was always there to provide unconditional love and support. That devotion carried through to his grandchildren whom he loved fiercely; they were his greatest legacy.

His family would like to thank Dr. Robert Hodson, Dr. Tom Hewlett, Dr. Dale Miller, Dr. Conrad Oja, Dr. Stacey Northgrave and the hospitalists on 4C for their excellent care. A special debt of gratitude goes to hospitalist Dr Colin Bonnar who not only took care of Hayes but greatly eased the family's concerns during Hayes' extended stay in the hospital. Sincere appreciation to all the healthcare workers on 4C as well. Also a very special thank you to Father Paul Murphy who said prayers and gave a blessing to Hayes on the day of his death.

There will be no wake at Hayes' request. A mass celebrating his life will be held at St Marguerite Bourgeoys, 40 Cabot Street, Sydney at 11 A.M. on Monday, December 8th. Father Bill Burke will be the celebrant. A reception will take place at the Membertou Trade and Convention Centre, the Jenu Room on the main floor, immediately following the church service. Inurnment will take place in Resurrection Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, if so desired, a donation in Hayes' memory can be made to Cape Breton University Scholarships and Bursaries.

*online - cbu.ca/give

*mail - CBU Development, 1250 Grand Lake Rd., Sydney NS B1M1A2

*phone - 902-563-1232

To share memories or condolences with the family or to view a livestream of the church service, visit www.twcurry.com