Obituary of Myrtle Marie MacDonald

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Myrtle Marie (Boyd) MacDonald, age 82 years, the beloved wife of Wilfred H. MacDonald, from James River, Antigonish. Myrtle passed away peacefully at St. Martha's Hospital on May 7, 2025.

Myrtle was a loving and dedicated mother who took immense pride in raising her children. Her Catholic faith was important to her, and she was a dedicated member of the Catholic Women's League (CWL) for over 50 years. Myrtle loved to cook and bake, always greeting visitors with a cup of tea and her delicious biscuits. For many years, she ensured the farm workers were well-fed, providing them with hearty meals and warm hospitality. Her nurturing spirit and unwavering dedication to her family shined through in every aspect of her life. Myrtle cherished the time spent with her grandchildren and was overjoyed to welcome her first great-grandchild. Even during her illness, her eyes would light up whenever she saw pictures of Blair Olivia.

Prior to her health issues, Myrtle enjoyed her flower gardens, a good game of cards, and weekly family gatherings to play radio bingo. She had a special bond with her best friend and sister, Mary Lou Boyd, cherishing the time they spent together prior to Mary Lou's passing.

She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Wilfred H. MacDonald, and her children: Lynn (Wayne) Chisholm, Jo Ann MacDonald, Tracy (Gerard) Kennedy, Derek (Mari) MacDonald, Darlene (Mike) Dykxhoorn of Belmont, ON, and Blair (Rhonda) MacDonald, along with her grandchildren: Cory (Allison), Christopher (Randi), Kyle (Camryn), and Kara Chisholm; Caitlin and Jaden MacDonald; Bradley (Emily) Kennedy; Cole and Brooke MacDonald; and great-grandchild Blair Olivia Chisholm. Myrtle also leaves behind her brothers: Danny (Monica) Boyd, John Andrew (Anne) Boyd, and Lloyd LeBlanc (Dolores) of Port Elgin, ON.

Myrtle was predeceased by her parents, Shaw and Margaret (MacInnis) Boyd, her sister Mary Lou Boyd, and her grandson Mark Wilfred Kennedy.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Antigonish Homemakers and the healthcare team at St. Martha’s for their exceptional care of our cherished wife and mother. We are especially grateful to the palliative care team for their compassionate and attentive care during our mother's final days. Special thanks to Sister Catherine and Father Andrew for their support and kindness.

Visitation will be held from 2:00-4:00 pm and 7:00-9:00 pm on Friday, May 9th in MacIsaac Funeral Home, 61 Pleasant St. Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday in St. Joseph's Church, St. Joseph's, Reverend Andrew Boyd presiding. Burial in the parish cemetery. In memoriam, donations may be made to St. Martha’s Palliative Care Unit, VON Antigonish, or the Antigonish Homemakers.

May she rest in peace, knowing she deeply touched the hearts of all who knew her.