It is with deep sadness and broken hearts that we announce the sudden and unexpected death of our beautiful and beloved mother, Ann Maureen (Timmons) MacSween. Our mother passed on October 3rd, 2025 surrounded by her loving family at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital.

Ann was born on May 4th, 1947 in New Waterford, Nova Scotia and was the eldest of six children to the late Cletus and Isabel (MacKinnon) Timmons. She was a faithful parishioner of the Parish of St. Leonard.

Ann attended St. Agnes School and Xavier College. She later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from St. Francis Xavier University, followed by a Bachelor of Education from Dalhousie University in 1969.

Her 35-year teaching profession began with a lively group of Grade 9 Mount Carmel teenagers, followed by rewarding years at Miners Memorial School and lastly a long and successful career at Mount Carmel Elementary. During her first year of teaching, she met her future husband, Greg, with whom she shared a deep love and partnership. Together, they went on to spend 50 wonderful years of marriage.

Ann discovered her passion for education early in life. Inspired by her mother Isabel, she followed in her footsteps to become a teacher. At a young age, Ann enjoyed helping her siblings with homework at the kitchen table and provided them with guidance and support. Ann remained deeply connected to her siblings throughout their lives, cherishing a close bond filled with love and shared memories.

Ann’s students appreciated her kindness, compassion, generosity and sense of style. Even in her final days, Ann found joy in helping her grandchildren with their homework, whether sitting beside them or over the phone. After her retirement, she enjoyed running into her former students and hearing about their lives. She was always thankful for the lasting friendships she made during her career. She loved connecting with her friends and colleagues at the retired teachers’ luncheons and social events.

Ann had a great interest in sports. She played basketball for St. Agnes High School where the team took home the provincial championship in 1965. That same passion continued in her years at St. Francis Xavier University where she played Senior Varsity basketball. During her teaching career, Ann returned to the game coaching her children while they were in elementary school. One of her greatest pastimes was cheering on her children and grandchildren from the sidelines in their respective sports in both Cape Breton and Calgary.

Ann was actively involved in volunteering her time with the Parish of St. Leonard. For many years, she served on parish council and was a long-term, dedicated member of the CWL. Ann was involved in many roles, lastly serving as CWL President. 

Our parents were blessed to share many wonderful years of retirement together. They enjoyed group trips to Europe, time spent around the Cabot Trail with their children and later with grandchildren and their involvement in community events.

Mom found happiness even in the simplest things; a good conversation and a hot cup of tea preferably made by a Cape Bretoner. Those who spoke with her appreciated how she truly listened, she had a gift for making others feel heard. Treating people with respect and kindness was the essence of who she was.

Mom’s greatest gift was being a mother to her four children and sharing moments with her eight grandchildren. She was the heart of our family, creating a warm and loving home where she hosted many gatherings for the Timmons and MacSween relatives. As we grew into adulthood, Mom was our greatest supporter, always ready to listen while continuing to be connected to our daily lives. Mom cherished her time on the Mira with Patricia, Sid and their boys and her many trips to Calgary to visit her three eldest children and grandchildren. We take comfort in knowing that Mom and Dad are now reunited in heaven together watching over us.

Ann is survived by her son David (Lisa); daughters, Maureen (Danny Procter), Shannon (Darren MacIsaac), Patricia (Sid Oliver). She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, Mason and Madison (MacSween); Siobhan (Procter); Bhreagh, Meaghan and Ryan (MacIsaac); Austin and Clark (Oliver); her sister Claire (Joe Mills), brother Anthony, sisters Patricia and Mary Helen and brother Eugene Timmons. Also left to mourn is Ann’s sister-in-law Mary (Teddy Morrison); brothers-in-law, Doug (Alana), Terry (Susan), Aubrey (Ann Marie), Ronnie (Sandra) and Michael (Patricia). Ann leaves behind her dear friend and neighbour Darnell (Laurie) Young and many nieces and nephews.

Ann was predeceased by her husband Greg, her parents and other beloved family members who held a special place in her heart.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to everyone who provided support during this difficult time. We would also like to thank the first responders, doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists and staff at the ER and CCU at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital for their exceptional care and compassion.  

Donations may be made to the Breton Education Scholarship Fund or the Cape Breton Regional Hospital. 

Mom, you were a beautiful, classy and selfless mother who we deeply loved. You will be forever missed by your family. “A mother’s love is always with her children.”

Visitation for Ann will be held on Thursday, October 9th from 5-8 p.m. at V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, 380 Smith Street, New Waterford. A Funeral Mass of celebration will take place on Friday, October 10th, at 2 p.m. in the Parish Church of St. Leonard, Mount Carmel Avenue, with Father Godwin Obike and Father Jim Oliver officiating. Burial will be in Mount Carmel Cemetery with a reception to follow at V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca.