Obituary of Gerald Murdock McNeil, Scotchtown

It is with deep sadness that we, the family of Gerald ('Boner') Murdock McNeil, regret to announce his passing on October 3, 2020, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, with his family by his side. Jerry was born in New Waterford to the late Florence MacMullin and Francis 'Fro' McNeil on November 11, 1954. In his early years, Jerry worked installing siding for Lorne Aucoin and the MacPherson Brothers with his good friend Johnny Hutchinson. Dad was a member of the Canadian Forces Reserves (Militia). With the novelty of the coal mines opening in New Waterford, Jerry went to work underground. He worked at Lingan Colliery and finished his career on the surface at Prince Colliery. Anyone who knows Jerry or worked with him knew that his work ethic was second to none. He was a beloved Montreal Canadiens fan. He also adored his time with his dart family whom he looked forward to seeing every week. Jerry was also a fan of gardening, creating outdoor rinks for his boys, making or fixing anything with wood, and those who know, know lots of stories about 'Big Red'. Jerry is survived by the love of his life, Cecilia McNeil; his three sons, Jeffrey (Erin), Ryan (Crystal), and Sandy (Heidi). His siblings, Jeannie (Joe), Frank (Cynthia), Pauline (Glynn), Bernie, Ronnie, and step-brother, Sonny (Anne Marie). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Scott, Jordan, Cordelia, Cash, Jacob, and Chloe as well one great-grandson, Riley and one 'grand-dogger' Gemma, whom he absolutely adored. Jerry was predeceased by a brother John A. in infancy; brother Steve (Cathy), and by his step-mother, Margaret MacPherson. Dad was an organ donor and his corneas have been donated for transplant. Visitation will be held on Friday, October 9 from 4-7:30 p.m. in V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, 380 Smith Street, New Waterford. Due to Covid -19 restrictions, we ask that all in attendance wear a mask and practice social distancing. A Funeral Mass of celebration will be held in the Parish Church of St. Leonard, Mount Carmel Avenue, with Father Peter MacLeod officiating. Burial will follow in St. Michael's cemetery, River Ryan. Donations in Jerry's memory may be made to a charity of one's choice. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca. “Yeah. I’ll be right there.”