Mary Philomena "Sis" McNeil, 89, of New Waterford, N.S., left us peacefully on Dec 30th, 2025, surrounded by family. She was a much-loved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. 

Sis will be remembered for her deep spirituality, grace, kindness, and passion for learning. She relished her time with her family and friends, cottaging on the Mira, and doing crossword puzzles with her family.

Born on June 11, 1936, in Glace Bay, Sis was predeceased by her son, Mark; parents, Stephen and Marion (MacNeil) Brufatto; siblings, Bud (Joan), Cecil (Joan), (Rhoda), Eric; brother-in-law, Jack Dean; nephew, Clyde Dean and niece, Michelle Brufatto. 

Surviving are her beloved husband of 70 years, Russell and daughters, Charlene, Karen, and Gina (Robert); sons, Paul, Shawn (Marilyn), and Philip (Amanda); siblings, Evelyn, Sylvia (Doug), and Berna; twelve grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. 

She worked tirelessly for St. Agnes Parish as a Reader, Teacher, and Eucharistic Minister and later for the Diocese of Antigonish as the Religious Education Coordinator, providing Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults. She co-developed a workshop for women called Aging Gracefully. She was the Bereavement Coordinator with the Cape Breton Hospital from 1997 to 2003. She was respected and appreciated for her gentleness and sensitivity in dealing with bereaved families. 

The family would like to thank her sister, Berna and all her caregivers for their many kindnesses over the last number of years as Sis's health waned. 

A special thank you to the Hospice Staff and Dr. Anne-Frances D' Intino for their compassion and personalized care, which made mom’s final days full of life and love. 

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life and reception will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026 from 2-4 p.m. in V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, 380 Smith Street, New Waterford. Burial will follow in St. Agnes Cemetery, New Waterford.

In place of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice. Online condolences to the family may be expressed at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca.