Flora Marie MacDonald, September 29, 1937 to October 17, 2024.
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Marie MacDonald on Thursday, October 17, 2024 at St. Martha's Hospital. She was 87. Born and raised in New Glasgow, NS, Marie was the only child and much-loved daughter of Colin F. and Cecilia (Chisholm) MacDonald. She grew up on George Street in a home filled with music.
Marie attended St. Francis Xavier University and completed a B.A. (Music) in 1958 and a B.Ed. in 1959. Later she completed a Masters degree in Education at Indiana University, Bloomington, IN. Marie's early professional career took her to the University of Rhode Island. This was followed by many years in Boca Raton, FL. as a staff member and later as Director of the Career Planning & Placement Center, Florida Atlantic University. She retired in 2002.
In retirement, Marie divided her time between the family home in New Glasgow and her condo in Boca Raton. She was an active member of St. John the Baptist Parish, New Glasgow and St. Joan of Arc Parish, Boca Raton, and a devoted choir member of both congregations.
Marie took great pride in her Nova Scotia roots and was an excellent ambassador for the province, hosting her friends from far and wide. A tour guide extraordinaire, she showcased Nova Scotia beautifully.
Her love of Nova Scotia was only excelled by her passion and devotion to St FX. Marie was an active alumnus, a generous supporter and a committed organizer of the annual gathering of St FX alumni in Florida. She attended every Xaverian event during Homecoming and looked forward to reconnecting with old friends.
Her quick and gentle sense of humour and sunny disposition endeared her to many. Marie actively maintained an amazing network of friends and family connections throughout Canada and the US. Health concerns prompted a permanent return to Nova Scotia in February 2020 and Marie settled at The Maples in Antigonish. The warm, welcoming atmosphere of care and friendship enriched her final years.
Marie is survived by her Chisholm cousins: Shaun, Jim, Estelle Grajczyk and Anne Gosse; her Grant cousins in Ottawa; her McIntosh cousins in California; cherished friends throughout Canada and the US, supportive neighbours in New Glasgow and family friends throughout Nova Scotia.
We are especially grateful for the invaluable assistance of special friends in Boca Raton, FL. who facilitated Marie's final move to Nova Scotia. Sincere gratitude is extended to the staff of the Maples for their kindness and compassionate care of Marie, especially Marcie Mason and her team. Her last year was made particularly fulfilling by her devoted caregivers: Mary, Bev and Ashley. Thank you to Dr. Rice and the Palliative Care team and staff for their exceptional care.
Cremation has taken place. Arrangements entrusted to R.H. Porter Funeral Home in New Glasgow. Funeral will be held on Friday, October 25, 2024 at 12 pm at St. John the Baptist Church in New Glasgow. The service was recorded. A link is below. Burial in Heatherton at a later date.
Donations in her memory may be made to St. Martha's Regional Hospital - Palliative Care, Antigonish, NS or to a charity of one's choice.