Philip Nicholas MacGillivray
1923-2018
With heavy hearts and much gratitude for a life
well lived, we announce the peaceful passing of Philip Nicholas
MacGillivray, 94, surrounded by his loving family in the palliative
care unit of the SJRH on Thursday, May 17, 2018. Born in Saint John,
N.B. on October 31st, 1923, Phil was the son of
James J. and Geraldine (Bowes) MacGillivray. Married for 66 years, he
was the devoted husband of Inez (Coughlan) MacGillivray, who
predeceased him in 2014.
Phil was a loving father, grandfather, great grandfather. He
is survived by his six children Mary Lou Brittain, Andrew (Bonnie
Williams) MacGillivray, John (Carol) MacGillivray, Anne (Mark)
O’Brien, Jim (Lori) MacGillivray, Larry (Jane) MacGillivray,
eighteen grandchildren, five great grandchildren, and several nieces
and nephews. In addition to his wife, Phil was predeceased by his
son-in-law, Bob Brittain, his brothers James and Gerald, his sister
Theresa, and an infant brother, John. Phil was a loyal friend and will
be sadly missed by many, including his friend of 90 years, Don
Richardson.
Having served overseas in World War II, Phil was a proud
veteran and a member of the Royal Canadian Legion and the Byng Boys
Club. In 2014, Phil was honoured to receive the French National Order
of the Legion of Honour for his role in the liberation of
France.
Phil enjoyed a rewarding career at Baxter Foods and General
Dairies for over 40 years. He also believed in giving back to his
community and was a member of many volunteer organizations over the
years, including Rotary Club, Knights of Columbus, and the Saint John
Executive Association.
Following his retirement in 1987, Phil developed a passion
for art which led him to become an accomplished artist, with works
spanning 30 years. He was a mentor to many, encouraging others to
develop interests and pursue passions. Phil was a lifelong learner and
a believer in the power of positive thinking.
Phil was a man of great faith, and served as a role model for
his greatest love, his family. He has continued to inspire, impress
and give back to his children to this day. His family was blessed with
48 beautiful years together at Phil and Inez’s summer home
in Cambridge-Narrows. Phil and Inez enjoyed many years of travel,
including many winters spent in Alva, Florida.
Phil’s family would like to extend a heartfelt
thank you to the many doctors, nurses and healthcare providers
involved in Dad’s journey, especially those in the
Palliative Care Unit at SJRH. Their kindness and care will never be
forgotten.
Resting at Brenan’s Funeral
Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, with visiting on
Monday, May 21, 2018 from 3:00 to 8:30 PM, a Mass of Christian Burial
will be celebrated from Sts. Joachim and Ann Parish, 135
Simpson Drive, Saint John, N.B. on Tuesday, May 22, 2018 at 11:00 AM.
Interment will take place in St. Joseph’s Cemetery following the
funeral. Donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, Save
Gagetown-Jemseg Ferry or the charity of the donor’s choice.
Online condolences and remembrances can be made at
www.brenansfh.com
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Philip Nicholas MacGillivray 19232018.source
Décès pour la Ville: Saint John, Province: Nouveau-Brunswick
