Obituary of Mary Rita Kavanaugh, RN, New Waterford

It is with heavy hearts that we, the family, announce the passing of Mary Rita Kavanaugh. Rita peacefully passed away surrounded by her loving family at the Glace Bay Hospital on March 5, 2025.

Born in New Waterford on March 15, 1933, she was the daughter of the late William "Bill" and Mary (LeLievre) Hines of New Waterford. 

Rita attended Mount Carmel School and went on to graduate from the New Waterford General Hospital Nursing Program in 1952. Spending time with her family was the most important thing in her life; whether it was camping in the Valley or spending time in Cheticamp surrounded by friends and relatives. She also enjoyed a good game of cards, baking and preparing meals. Rita was a member of the Parish Church of St. Leonard, New Waterford.

Rita was married to the late Ronald Kavanaugh and is survived by her loving children, Alice Hogan and Bill (Kim) Kavanaugh along with her beloved grandchildren, Paula, Michael, Paul Francis, Nicole, Alicia and Alyssa. She is also survived by 12 great-grandchildren whom she loved dearly.

Also surviving are her brothers, Raymond Hines, Paul(Susie) Hines and sister, Bernice(Malcolm) Cameron along with many nieces and nephews. 

Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Ronald; daughter, Ann McKenzie and sister, Barbara Poirier and many other family members.

Special thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff on the Third Floor, Glace Bay Hospital for their excellent and compassionate care along with her family physician, Dr. Ajuwon in New Waterford.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held on Monday, March 10 from noon until the time of the service at 1 p.m. all in V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home Chapel, 380 Smith Street, New Waterford. Deacon Lorne MacNeil officiating. A reception will follow at the K.O.C., New Waterford. Burial will be in Mount Carmel Cemetery at a later date. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca. 

Donations in memory of Rita may be made to the M.S. Society or a charity of one's choice .