We, the family of Florence MacNeil, wish to announce her passing on Sunday, September 26, 2021, in the Palliative Care Unit of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital.
Born February 15, 1938, in Sydney, Florence was the daughter of Jessie Anne Morrison and Archie MacKinnon.
Florence is survived by her loving husband of 65years, Eugene “Mack” MacNeil; sons, Stephen, Jason and Jan (Hayden and Lucas), Robbie and Sharon (Taylor and Matthew), John and Theresa (Ronnie and Jessie), George and Debbie (Amanda, Jody and Michael); sister, Jean (Sandy) MacKinnon; grandchildren, Chelsea, Kylie and Kodi; as well as her great-grandchildren.
Florence was predeceased by her sons, Ronnie and Paddy; sisters, Archena MacKeigan and Frances Waters, as well as her granddaughter, Tara Ballantyne.
Our loss is great, but it was comforting to have the VON and such caring nurses, doctors and volunteers of the Palliative Care Unit care for her and support us in our time of need.
Those who knew Florence best can attest to her great sense of humour which she continued to display even during her illness. She would always say, “Mama said if you don’t know whether to laugh or cry, always choose to laugh”. There was always a special place in her heart for Mama.
Everyone recognized her as the Walmart greeter. The years she spent working there were some of her favorite.
Florence belonged to the Catholic Charismatic Renewal where she prayed with and for many people. Known for her special spiritual gifts, friends and even strangers would seek her prophetic word. She taught us that faith could be as small as a mustard seed but once planted, will flourish. Eugene shared in her love of God and throughout the years, they changed the lives of many people.
There is a belief that God places certain people on our path and this was true of her relationship with her new best friend, Arlene.
Florence also loved animals, especially cats. Her door was always open and when they came, they never left. She was always able to share a connection with Elissa in their mutual love of animals.
She believed that from the moment we are born, we are on a journey to our home in heaven. She wrote that we should enjoy our time on earth, as it is only temporary. Someday, we will all be reunited with our loved ones who have gone before us; a day which she believed would be filled with joy and celebration.
It’s not goodbye, it’s until we meet again.
A funeral mass to celebrate Florence’s life will take place on Saturday, October 2, 2021 at St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Parish, Cabot Street, Sydney at 11 a.m. Burial to take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Feral and Abandoned Cat Society or charity of one’s choice.
Words of comfort can be sent to the family at www.sydneymemorialchapel.ca or e-mail sydneymemorialchapel@ns.sympatico.ca
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Florence MacNeil 2021..
Death notice for the town of: Sydney, Province: Nova Scotia