The Honourable Elmer M. MacKay, P.C., K.C., B.A. LL.B.

Elmer MacIntosh MacKay, a proud and well-respected Pictonian, passed away on July 24, 2026 at the age of 89. 

Elmer would often say, "I wouldn’t ever want to live anywhere else." Pictou County was his home, and Lorne the center of his universe. 

He held a profound love and respect for his parents Gordon and Laura MacKay. From his father, who was a strong and knowledgeable woodsman, Elmer learned to revere and care for the forests that surrounded him as well as the value of hard work. From his mother, he inherited a spirit of kindness and humility that shaped all his relationships. His beloved sister, Margaret, was his lifelong confidante and dearest friend; together they shared a deep devotion to family, friends and to caring for animals, both domestic and wild.  

Elmer’s lifelong thirst for knowledge began in a one-room schoolhouse in Lorne and carried him through Acadia University and Dalhousie Law School. An avid reader, he had a remarkable memory for historical facts, poetry, music and sports- especially when it came to his beloved New York Yankees. He enjoyed the challenge of quoting verbatim authors and speakers he respected. 

He began his law career in New Glasgow where he built a very busy and successful law practice. His fifty years of practicing law in Nova Scotia was deservedly recognized by the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society. Elmer, however, remained just as much at home behind a tractor’s steering wheel as behind a podium.  

Elmer was a successful businessman, being the first to bring cable tv. to Pictou County, and was a proud Mason and Shriner for almost 60 years.

In 1971, he was elected as Member of Parliament for Central Nova, a role he proudly held for twenty-two years. He served with distinction in several cabinet positions, including Minister of Public Works, Solicitor General, Minister of Revenue, and Minister of the Atlantic Opportunities Agency. Dedicated to his constituents, he championed projects that left a lasting impact, including the deCoste Centre, the Pictou Justice Centre, and the Confederation Bridge linking Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. Elmer always had a special spot in his heart for Prince Edward Island.

More recently, Elmer played a key role in the creation of the SPCA’s state-of-the-art facility in Pictou County. Advocacy- for people and animals alike- was central to his life’s purpose. 

Elmer shared more than 32 years of marriage with his wife, Sharon Lloy, who was always by his side. Sharon was the love of his life. Together, they cherished simple joys: long drives along country roads, sunsets from their sunroom and watching the tens of thousands of trees Elmer had planted and nurtured flourish across the landscape. 

Elmer was the proud father of five children and fourteen grandchildren: Cethlyn and her husband Gary (Aldara), Peter and his wife Nazanin (Kian, Valentia, Caledon), Mary Louise and her husband Rob (Etain, Bredin, Fiona), Andy and his wife Sol (Lucia, Isabella, James) and Rebecca and her husband Michael (Max, Jemima, Flecther, Imagin). 

Elmer took great pride in the success of his children and grandchildren and their shared love of sports. Over the years he travelled to watch Yankee games with his sons Peter and Andy and talked every day on the phone with them and his daughters. His grandchildren brought joy to him and pleasure in watching them grow and succeed in their many activities.

He leaves behind his brother-in-law Doug Lloy, and his exceptional personal assistant Novelle Crosby, both of whom had much admiration and respect for him. 

Elmer so very much appreciated outstanding care Dr. Gregor MacLean and Dr. Sarah Ramer provided him over many years. They went above and beyond the call of duty. 

He was also blessed with many cherished friends, near and far, whose companionship enriched his life. 

Grateful for every blessing, Elmer lived with generosity, strength and humility. Though he accomplished much, he always downplayed his own efforts, preferring instead to shine a light on others. He will be remembered with warmth, admiration, and affection by all who were fortunate enough to know him. 

A private family burial will be held as per Elmer’s wishes. Friends and family are invited to Summer Street Industries, 72 Park Street, New Glasgow, for a social gathering on Thursday, July 30, 2-4 pm. No flowers by request. Arrangements are under the direction of R.H. Porter Funeral Home, New Glasgow. 

A life well lived.