Abby was a daughter of the late Janet and Malcolm MacQuarrie, born on January 22nd,1960, where she grew up at the Kenloch homestead.
After graduating high school, she chased her dreams and attended St Francis Xavier University where she received her BA and then onto her Bachelor of Education. She certainly studied hard, often modestly comparing her high marks with her brother Cameron.
Abby then taught various grade levels casually throughout her teaching career, sharing her passion for learning with many children over the years.
On July 3rd,1982, Abby married Ned MacDonald, and went on to have two daughters, Janna and Breanna who were their pride and joy. They resided in Glenville and worked hard to make the old "ski lodge" a home where they hosted many gatherings over the years.
During Abby's early years into adulthood, she was known for her love of music and enjoying time with her band "The 5 Bee's' ', as a drummer. She would often eavesdrop on her brothers practicing in the shed in Kenloch, picking up on melodies by ear.
Abby was a beautiful artist and still has many of her sketches at the Inverness Miners Museum upstairs.
Abby also practiced karate and completed her black belt alongside her brothers.
Abby and Neddy enjoyed many outings including tennis, golf and skiing.
Once Abby and Neddy started a family, their daughter's friends were welcomed into their home as their own, creating many special memories growing up.
Abby was predeceased by her husband, Ned; mother, Janet; father, Malcolm MacQuarrie; mother-in-law, Betty; father-in-law, Dan Joe MacDonald and brother, Stanley MacQuarrie.
Abby is survived by her daughters, Janna (Reid) Saffarek, Breanna (Liam) MacDonnell and grandchildren, Raine Saffarek, Noah MacDonnell and Brooke MacDonnell who were the light of her life the most recent years.
Abby is also survived by siblings, Angus (Mabel) MacQuarrie, Floanna (Al) Chisholm, Danena (Malcolm) (deceased) Mackinnon, Lauchie (Millie) MacQuarrie, Alex "Trapper" (Wilena) MacQuarrie, Cecil (Mary Anderson) MacQuarrie, and Cameron (Clare) MacQuarrie.
Abby had many close cousins that she grew up with, especially Elizabeth (Wally) Forrest and Donna (Dale) Gatenby who stood beside her on their wedding day. Abby also loved spending time with her in-laws, who welcomed her with open arms.
Abby was also survived by many nieces, nephews, and grand nieces and nephews. Her love for children always showed with these relationships.
If you knew Abby, you knew she was caring, compassionate, and always had a positive spin on any situation. There is a saying that "they would give the shirt off of their back for you", this was more than true for Abby as she once gave the shoes off of her feet to her sister, who only complimented them.
Abby was never one to complain, this became true as Abby was faced with an unfair health battle over a long number of years. Abby kept on living as best she could with dignity and grace.
Our family would like to thank the Inverary Manor staff who provided her with wonderful care over the last year. We would also like to thank Dr. Lowry, the palliative care team, and home support who all played a vital role at some point during her battle.
Visitation will take place on Wednesday, September 20th 2023 in the East Lake Ainslie Presbyterian Church from 1- 1:45 pm with Funeral Service to follow at 2 pm. Burial to follow in Stella Maris Parish Cemetery, Inverness.
In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Inverary Manor, Inverness, Central Inverness Palliative Care Society, or a charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be made to: www.invernessfuneralhome.com
