Obituary of Mary Catherine Kell

Age 78, of Antigonish, passed away peacefully with family by her side in St. Martha's Regional Hosptial on Sunday, July 13, 2025.

Born in Antigonish, she was the daughter of the late William and Mary Ellen (Duggan) Kelly.

Mom grew up in Glencoe, Guysborough County and moved to Hawthorne Street as a young girl. She met and married Jack Kell and moved to Church Street where they raised their family.

After raising her own children, mom babysat for many years and loved it, those children brought her much joy. In her later years, mom was a housekeeper for the priests of Saint Ninian Parish.

Throughout the years, mom had many friends who stopped in to see her. She always wanted to have something prepared - "Just in case someone stops in". She was a great cook and baker and enjoyed a cup of tea and a game of cards.

Mary is survived by her daughters Mary (Jeff) MacDonald, Antigonish; Kim (Doug) MacDonald, James River; grandchildren John Dan, Margaret (Seamus), Peter, Maura (Nathan), Katie, Allie, Melissa and her first, and only, great grandchild, Nellie. She is also survived by her sister Regis (John) and brother Steve (Christine). 

She is predeceased by her husband Jack and son Donald (Bo), brothers Maurice (Bessie), Danny (Rita), sister Ann, nephew Carmen and niece Jacqueline.

The family would like to thank her friends who provided comfort and company throughout the years, especially her sister-in-law Bessie Kelly.

We would also like to thank her longtime family physician, Dr. John Chiasson. In her final days, mom had exceptional care from all the doctors and nurses involved with the palliative team. You are all amazing!

There will be no visitation upon mom's request. Funeral Mass will be held at 10 am on Thursday, July 17, 2025 in St. Ninian Cathedral, Reverend Danny MacLennan presiding. Burial in the parish cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to St. Martha's Palliative Care Unit, c/o St. Martha's Regional Hosptial Foundation.