Obituary of Mary Agnes Deon

Our Mom, Nana and sister, Mary Agnes Deon passed away peacefully in the RK MacDonald Nursing home on April 15, 2023.

Born and raised in Tracadie, she was the daughter of the late Norman Durley and Lucy (Pettipas / Sandy MacMillan)

Mom raised our family in several communities, the last being in Havre Boucher. At a very young age she was diagnosed with MS and it subsequently progressed to a point where she required more constant care and attention. For the last 16 years she became a permanent resident of the RK MacDonald Nursing Home in Antigonish, a home that surrounded her with love and exceptional care.

Throughout her life she was a friend and Mom to many. She became a very strong and active presence at the home forming some close bonds with both the staff and residents. She actively took part in all aspects of life at the RK such as volunteering in the canteen, delivering newspapers, and providing her voice in meetings to promote betterment for the residents of the home. She participated in gardening, art classes and any other recreational activities offered.

An electric wheelchair provided Mom with independence, giving her the freedom to enjoy many outings on her own or with a friend tagging along on a shopping venture. As recently as two weeks ago, Mom travelled down to the Main Street Café at the Maritime Inn to enjoy her favorite fish and chips.

She and her feline friend, Diane, loved welcoming visitors to her room in Thistledown and her love for Elvis was evident to anyone who entered her room.

Mom never missed an opportunity to listen to Ty Wallace and wheeled herself around ensuring that the other residents could share in his performances from their rooms.

Left to mourn her passing are children Jimmy, his wife Barb and their son Ben; Lisa Webber, and her children Ian and Riata;  Kenneth his wife Denise and their children Anthony and Alex;  brothers, Francis (Betty); Fred (Charlotte); Bobby (the late Virginia); and a sister, Marie;  several nieces, nephews and cousins; as well as special friends, Vanessa Breen and Robyn Pitts.

Mom was predeceased by her parents, brothers Edward and Alphonse and her oldest son, Clarence, in October of 2019. His death was a loss that we have all felt so deeply. 

Mom’s deep faith, determination and positive attitude throughout her life was admirable. Our family takes great comfort in knowing that her suffering is now over.

Heartfelt thanks to all staff of the RK MacDonald and to all the medical professionals who have provided exceptional care to Mom. 

Cremation has taken place. At Mom’s request there will be no visitation. A mass of Christian burial will be held Thursday, April 20 at 11:00 am in St. Peter’s Church, Tracadie with Reverend John Barry presiding. Burial in the parish cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to the RK MacDonald Nursing Home.

Online condolences: www.macisaacs.ca