Dorothy (Gillis) MacNeil
Born In: Glace Bay
Passed in: Sydney
Passed on: May 13th, 2016
It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of our dear mother Dorothy, surrounded by her loving family on May 13, 2016.
Born in Glace Bay, she was the youngest child of the late John R. and Margaret (Butler) Gillis.
She was predeceased by her husband, John F. MacNeil; sister, Elizabeth (Gillis) Morrison; brother-in-law, Vincent Morrison; and brother, John Gillis (Idella).
She is survived by her daughters, Lois (Scott) Parker, Cathy, Jo-Ann Robertson, Phyllis, Theresa (Dan) McCarthy, Dorothy and Sheri; and six grandchildren, Mark, Matt, Landon, Terry, Donnie, and Robin; as well as her five great-grandchildren.
Growing up in both Glace Bay and then Sydney, she loved playing basketball, skating and dancing (and we are told her dance card was always full). She graduated in 1949 from St. Martha’s School of Nursing, Antigonish, where she made many friends and had so many fond memories of her stay there. She started her career at the Steel Company’s private hospital and as well provided private nursing care to numerous families throughout the area. She then continued her career at St. Rita Hospital in pediatrics, from where she retired. Her warmth and kindness not only extended to all the children under her care but to all her fellow colleagues.
Mom’s charm and wit were infectious and no one was impervious to her charisma or that twinkle in her eye. She was nurturing to a fault and she touched everyone who was lucky enough to have been in her presence (or kitchen) but by far her greatest gift to us was just being our mom. Mom and her son-in-law, Dan, shared a special bond, spending many evenings “watching” the hockey games, although there was a competition as to who napped the most during those times. He was a great tease but rarely could he get one over on her. Her presence and wonderful spirit will be missed by all and especially by her longtime friend, Sheila, who shared many evenings laughing and trading memories with her.
Visitation will be held at T.W. Curry Parkview Chapel, Thursday, May 19, 2016, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Friday, May 20, 2016, at St. Marguerite Bourgeoys, Sydney.
Dorothy’s family will be forever grateful for the excellent care and compassion shown to her at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, and for the wonderful staff of the palliative care unit.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Cape Breton Regional Hospital palliative-care unit.