Ella Lee Cleveland (MacNeil) of MacLellans Brook, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2019 at the Palliative Care Unit of the Aberdeen Hospital, after a long courageous battle with acute myeloid leukemia, surrounded by her loving family. Throughout her 16 month struggle, she endured severe complications and for quite some time, defied the odds. Her passion for life and her inner strength were the tools that gave her some precious additional time.
Born May 15, 1956 in New Glasgow, she was the daughter of the late John Henry and Ella (Facey) McNeil. Lee was a graduate of Nova Scotia Teachers College and enjoyed a long and fulfilling teaching career at G. R. Saunders Elementary School in Stellarton. Every student mattered greatly to her and she was a true inspiration to all those she taught.
In her younger years, Lee was a member of the Dunvegan Pipe Band, The Clan Thompson Pipe Band and co-chaired the 1989 Junior Ladies golf championship in Abercrombie.
After an early retirement, she was able to enjoy seven years wintering in Cape Coral, Florida, where she made many great friends. Never being much of a fan of Canadian winters, she always looked forward to heading south but only after getting in a little more substitute teaching.
Her incredible passion for gardening was evident by all who came to her home property in MacLellans Brook, the backdrop for weddings and wedding pictures over the years. Even while in Florida, she insisted on adding her personal touch to the grounds of the rental properties, treating them like her own.
Her love of gardening and passion for teaching were surpassed only by the love and bond she shared with her husband, family, friends and especially her precious dog, Jagger.

Lee is survived by her loving husband Tim; her dog Jagger; brother John; sister Marilyn (Sandy) Stephenson; sister-in-laws, Polly (Tom) Peet; Wendy Cleveland; brothers-in-law Dan (Jessamyn) Cleveland; David Cleveland; nephews Aaron (Tracey) Stephenson, and their children, Nathan and Ben; Todd Stephenson, his daughter Ella; Shawn (Kate) Baker, and their daughter Bridgette; Jeremy Woodroffe; Alex Cleveland; nieces Sarah (Chris) Bradbury; Chelsea Woodroffe, and her sons Logan and Kyran; She will be forever remembered by Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and dear friends.
She was predeceased by her parents; infant brother Garry; and her in-laws, Stuart and Betty Cleveland.
A celebration of Lee’s life will be held 4 pm, Monday, June 17, 2019 at First Presbyterian Church, Stellarton with Rev. Charles McPherson officiating. There will be a reception in the church hall immediately following the service.
Donations in Lee’s memory to the Pictou County SPCA; the Canadian Cancer Society or the Pictou County Food Bank would be greatly appreciated. Arrangements are under the direction of Eagles Funeral Home, Westville.
In memory of Lee, she would be so happy if you would plant something in a special location. As it grows, blooms and becomes beautiful … “Remember our Angel.”