New Glasgow - Norma Jean (Macdonald) MacDonald, formerly of New Glasgow, NS, passed away on November 8th, 2017 at Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital in Fredericton.
Jean was born in New Annan, Nova Scotia on December 12, 1922 to the late Reverend A.T. and Mary (MacKay) Macdonald.
Following graduation from Stellarton High School, Jean attended Mount Alison University where in 1944 she was awarded a B.Sc. in Home Economics. While at Mt A, Jean met the love of her life and best friend Henry Edgar (Duff) MacDonald. They were married following the war in 1946.
Settling in New Glasgow, Jean worked as a dietitian at the Aberdeen Hospital. After several years as a stay-at-home mom, Jean resumed her career as a Home Economics teacher at New Glasgow Junior High School.
Jean was a member of Trinity United Church where she was active in U.C.W, Sunday school and Boy Scouts. Jean was also involved in I.O.D.E., University Women’s Club, Gyrette Club, Aberdeen Hospital Auxiliary and Home and School Association.
Always busy with her hands, Jean enjoyed many crafts, including knitting, quilting and sewing. All of her family and friends benefited as there were always socks, mitts, afghans, quilts among many other “Made by Jean” items to keep us warm and comfortable. Mom was also a phenomenal cook….great meals and always dessert….all done with ease in what seemed to us to be a tiny kitchen.
During her younger years, Jean was an ardent bowler, card player and skater. To watch Jean and Duff at Gyro skates glide the rink arm in arm was a special sight and they could also cut up a dance floor in style. They enjoyed travel and spent many winters in Florida with friends and family.
Mom was a very caring lady who loved good conversation and a good laugh. She was a straight shooter who enjoyed people who were “more cake than icing”
Jean’s greatest joy were her children: Ellen (Eric) Gozna, St. Andrews, NB; Bruce, Kentville, NS; and Ross (Shelly White), Port Elgin, Ontario. Her seven grandchildren were an enormous source of pride for Jean: Alison (Gozna) Brazeau (Dan), Cate (Gozna) Willett (Jordan), Ethan, Alana, Blake MacDonald and Jessica (MacDonald) Ardiel (Liam) and Rachel MacDonald. Jean also had three great-grandsons who were the apples of her eye: Joe and William Brazeau and Elias Willett.
Jean is also survived by sister-in-law Beth Macdonald, Toronto and brother-in-law Keith (Pat) MacDonald, Wolfville.
She was predeceased by Duff her husband of 63 years; brothers: Ian and Allister Macdonald; brothers and sisters-in-law: Horace (Chris) MacDonald, Douglas (Connie) MacDonald, Shirley and (Todd) Hickey.
Following her wishes Jean has been cremated. A memorial service for Jean will be held at a later date. Donations may be made to a charity of choice. Online condolences may be sent by visiting: www.rhporter.ca