MacKINNON, Margaret Ann

A woman of style, independence, love, loyalty, and faith, Margaret Ann MacKinnon lived her life to the fullest. She passed away on Wednesday, June 23, 2021 at Miners’ Memorial Manor, Sydney Mines. Born on MacKay St. in Florence, she was the only child of the late Flora (MacDonald) and Alex MacKinnon. She attended school in Florence and Sydney Mines and later the Nova Scotia Teachers’ College. She began her teaching career in Long Island, then to Bras d’Or, and finally to her beloved Florence Elementary, where she taught until her retirement. Through her many years as an educator and an active community member, Margaret Ann touched the lives of many students, parents, and colleagues and earned their tremendous respect. It gave her great pleasure to meet former students and catch up on their lives. She was a lady of strong faith and was a dedicated member of St. Stephens and later Holy Family parishes. Over the years she was a religion teacher, a lector, the church organist, and was always involved in parish endeavours. Margaret Ann was an avid reader and was particularly interested in her ancestors. She loved to drive her car and she spent many days driving people to and from medical appointments. There was nothing she enjoyed more than getting in the car and driving to visit her cousins whether it was Joe in Ironville, Kaye or Maxie in Highland Hill, Lucy in Southside Boularderie, or Annie in Sydney. With her lifelong friends Shirley and Pearl accompanying her, she often went shopping or driving to visit friends and if time didn’t permit a long drive, off to the North Sydney Mall they would go. If no one was available to go with her, her faithful dog Rieley took his place in the back seat and away they would go for a drive. Margaret Ann enjoyed travelling and whether it was a cruise or a tour, she was up for it with Tina or Mary. She loved Scottish music and was a regular attender at the Thursday night Scottish music at “The Mist” with Isabel, up until the pandemic occurred. She enjoyed social interactions and her weekly calendar often included breakfast at the Florence Legion with friends, a Sydney Mines Senior meeting with Theresa, and a trip to have George do her hair. Neighbours Gerard and Dave became her handymen, whether it was mowing, plowing, or changing a lightbulb, much of which enabled her to live on her own until her later years, in the house in which she was born. When Margaret Ann’s health declined she went to Miners’ Memorial Manor, where she enjoyed the recreational activities and companionship. A sincere thank you to Dr. Kohlsmith and to the staff of Miners’ Manor for the care they provided Margaret Ann, especially during her final days. Also, a special thank you to Dr. Michel Mc Keough and Louise for all their concern over the years and the care and advice they provided when she became ill. She was predeceased by companions, Dennis Jessome and Elwood Jardine, as well as many cousins and friends. At Margaret Ann’s request, there will be no visitation. A Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Family Church, Sydney Mines on Friday July 2 at 11 a.m. Covid rules will apply. Arrangements are under the care of J.M. Jobes Funeral Home. Burial will follow in St. Joseph’s cemetery in Bras d’Or. Words of comfort may be forwarded to her family at www.jmjobesfuneralhome.com.