Marilyn Ann Fraser (MacDonald) was born on April 14, 1944 in Kentville, NS, and was the daughter of the late Edward and Edith (Baglole) MacDonald. She passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on July 20, 2025.

Marilyn was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, cousin and aunt, enjoying spending time with family over and above all else, except maybe the ocean. We’re not sure, but Marilyn may have been part selkie. She could often be found wading and swimming, spending most of her summers at her favorite place, her cottage on the Northumberland Strait. She was regularly joined by her friends, children and grandchildren, passing her love of the shore on to them. Thrift shopping was another passion of Marilyn’s – she loved finding a deal and was very good at it. She spent many hours trolling the second-hand shops in Halifax and Pictou County. In the winter, Marilyn was happiest at the rink, enjoying a good hockey game, preferably one with a grandchild involved.

Marilyn was committed to her friends, both lifelong and new, and enjoyed spending time with them. She loved a good laugh, and definitely had friends who enjoyed this with her! We are grateful to her close friends supporting us in the last few weeks, a testament to their love for Mom. She was also committed to her community, spending many hours volunteering to support events at her church, Bethel Presbyterian, Pictou Landing.

Marilyn is survived by her husband, Robert; children, Annette (Paul), Robbie (Amanda), Cyndi (Todd) and Heidi (Ira); grandchildren, Grace, Kate, Ben, Luke, Willow, Parker and Coen; as well as close family and friends, Chrissy, Evelyn, Donald, Tom, Maureen, Al, Shirley, Betty, Tee, Susan and David. She was predeceased by her infant daughter, Robyn.

We would like to thank the staff at the Aberdeen Hospital for their care and compassion during her brief stay – they made a challenging time just a little bit easier, and their gentle and respectful care of Mom was noticed and greatly appreciated.

A service and reception will be held at Bethel Presbyterian Church, Pictou Landing on Saturday, August 2 at 2 pm. Reception in the church hall immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bethel Presbyterian Church, Pictou Landing. Arrangements are under the direction of R.H. Porter Funeral Home, New Glasgow.