Obituary of Mary Rose Smith

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Mary Rose Smith at the R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home, Antigonish. Mary Rose was the first born child of Margaret (Grant) and Cyril Reddy. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend, Mary Rose lived a life full of activity, creativity and strength. She was a life-long resident of Antigonish, except for a short time in Arisaig and a few years in Sydney. Her life went full circle as she spent her last years at the same address as her original home, at the corner of Pleasant and College Streets.

As a young woman Mary Rose was very active, pumping gas at her father’s service station, playing competitive basketball, enjoying baseball and dancing the jive. She had a beautiful singing voice and produced two vinyl records at the insistence of her choir instructors. Attending St. Andrew’s Rural High for grade twelve, she met Hughie, the love of her life. The romance blossomed as she worked at the telephone office and Hughie continued his studies at St. FX. Mary Rose impressed her sisters with her fashionable clothes and hairstyles and her phone in her bedroom.

Mary Rose and Hughie married on June 23,1962. They lived in McArras Brook, then Antigonish. They moved to Sydney with three pre-schoolers, Janet, Danny and Greg. Paul was born and later referred to himself as the only Cape Bretoner in the family. Mary Rose was thrilled to move back to Antigonish, where years later Brent was a welcome addition and completed the Smith crew. Hughie spent many work days on the road while Mary Rose managed the home front. The household was a busy place with the boys involved in sports and Janet holding her own in the midst of the activity. Mary Rose treasured summer days at the beach with the whole family in Knoydart.

As the family grew and Mary Rose had some leisure time, she became a skilled tole painter. Her love of color and design, and a group of women to paint with her at the kitchen table, brought great delight. Mary Rose stayed active and was a familiar sight walking at a rapid pace through the town. She had a green thumb and found joy in the beauty of the flowers she grew around her home. She was a faithful member of St. Ninian’s Parish. She enjoyed simple pleasures; a cup of tea, a good book, a relaxing bath and watching sports on her little television.

Mary Rose’s life was also marked by great loss. After thirty–two years of marriage she was predeceased by her husband Hughie, followed by the passing of her dear daughter Janet, her grandson Ben at birth, and recently, her son Paul. She will be welcomed by their embrace as she enters eternity.

Mary Rose celebrated her childrens’ marriages and welcomed the arrival of each grandchild. Grandma Rose kept a cupboard filled with their favourite treats always ready for their visits. Their school pictures were proudly displayed throughout her home. She took great interest in their activities and delighted in their company on the kitchen stools.

Family was always the center of Mary Rose’s life. She leaves behind her sons Danny (Mairi), Greg (Mary), Brent (Noella) and son-in-law Colin MacDonald. She was the proud grandmother of Lyndsay (Chris) Casey and their boys Ben, Nathan, and Rhodes; Emily (Addison); Alec (Jessica) and Gillean; Ryan and Nicola (Jonny); Mackenzie (Sean), Lucas and Will. She is fondly remembered by her sisters Roberta (Arnold) Rovers; Miriam (late Patrick) Lockhart; Frances (Cameron) Reddy Chisholm; Patricia (late Brian Thom); and sisters-in-law Judie (late Cyril) Reddy and Pat Jessup (late Jim Reddy). Also surviving Mary Rose are sister-in-law Claire Smith and brother-in-law Colin (Mary) Smith and Angus (late Mary) Grant and many cherished nieces and nephews.

The family is thankful for the care and compassion shown to Mary Rose by the staff of the RK MacDonald Nursing Home. Sincere appreciation to Gina, her caregiver, who brought joy in her adventures and loving care to the very end.

Following Mary Rose’s wishes, a private family viewing will be held. All are welcome to attend the Mass of Christian Burial to be held in St. Ninian Cathedral on Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 11am. Burial in St Ninian’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be gratefully accepted to support the charities that had meaning for Mary Rose - MS Society for Canada-Atlantic Division, RK MacDonald Foundation, Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia or a charity of your choice.