Obituary of Mary Ann (Martin) MacNeil, New Waterford

It is with tremendous sadness that we regretfully announce the death of our mother, daughter, grandmother, sister, aunt, Godmother and friend, Mary Ann (Martin) MacNeil. Her death occurred on Tuesday, November 9, 2021 at the Valley Regional Hospital, Kentville, N.S. with her family at her side. Born in New Waterford on May 18, 1956 she was the daughter of Catherine Bernice 'Bunny' and the late Charles Anthony 'Hank' Martin. Growing up on Olive Street in New Waterford, Mary was surrounded with great love by her parents and her thirteen siblings. Our parents provided us with a home where mutual love, kindness and respect were part of our everyday life. The bond created with our family goes far beyond the limitations of death. Mary will be deeply missed by her daughters Valerie and Suzanne. Mary was a woman of deep faith and she possessed many talents. She could turn her hand to anything. She was an excellent seamstress, knitter, cook and baker. Her home was always filled with the sweet smell of something on the stove. She had the voice of an angel and loved to sing her country music (Patsy Kline). Mary became a licensed hairstylist and was employed for several years in her trade. In her forties, Mary decided to return to school and through sheer determination she graduated from Cape Breton University with her Bachelor of Arts degree. For many years Mary was receptionist/office manager at her brother’s salon, Ronnie’s Hairline. There she was loved by the staff and clients alike and made many lasting friendships. Over the last number of years, physical, emotional and mental health took over Mary’s life and everyday was a struggle for her. We pray as a family that she has finally found the peace that she so longed for. Mary is survived by her husband Fred; her daughters, Valerie (Colin) MacKinnon and Suzanne (Tom) Ley; her beautiful grandchildren, Hailey, Kristopher, Alex, Nora, Maelle and her son, Mallory. She is also survived by her mom, Bunny; her eleven siblings and their spouses, Rick (Pauline), Tony (Suzanne), Sharon (Brian), Lorrie (Leroy), Ron (Gail), Susie (Tim), Margie (Al), Wanda, Lynn (Derrick), Jamie (Heather), and Kelly. Others that are saddened by her death are Fred's children, Micheal (Annette), Shelly (Wayne) and Lorinda along with many friends, especially her lifelong friends Joannie and Vivian. She was Aunt Mary to thirty five nieces and nephews, thirty three grandnieces and nephews and one great-great-grandnephew. She was so proud to be Godmother to Paul. She was predeceased by her dad, Hank in 2009; her sister, Judy in 2009 and her brother, David in 2002. Mary and her dad had a special relationship and his death was very difficult for her. Cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation as per Mary’s request. The Funeral Mass will take place on Friday, November 12, 2021 at 11 am in Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys Parish, Cabot Street, Sydney with Father Bill Burke as celebrant. A private family burial will take place immediately following the mass. Anyone wishing to attend the funeral must show proof of double vaccination and follow all Covid protocols. Donations in Mary’s memory can be made to the Cape Breton Regional Hospital: Cancer Care Fund or Cape Breton Hospice Care. Words of comfort can be sent to: www.vjmcgillivray.ca.