Obituary of Lorna MacDonald
It is with great sadness, but much gratitude for her long life, that we announce the passing of Lorna May (Murrell) MacDonald on June 10, 2022 in the Aberdeen Hospital, New Glasgow.
She was born on April 29, 1930 in Stellarton to the late Thomas and Margaret (Matheson) Murrell.
She was the last remaining member of her immediate family, predeceased by Phoebe (in infancy), Ruth (Keith) Whidden, Harold (Jean), Edna (Byron) MacKay, Joyce MacNeil, Clayton (Vi), Rhoda (Charles) Willan, and Gary (Elaine). She was also predeceased by nephew Ron Whidden and niece Linda MacKenzie. She was predeceased by the love of her life, Carthew Edmund MacDonald, and they are now reunited for eternity.
She is survived by son Michael, daughters Kim (Anthony) Chisholm and Kelly (Greg) Lackie, and grandson Carthew. The Murrell Clan is a tight-knit family with many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly, considering all as if they were her own.
As a proud military wife, she caught the travel bug early, eagerly anticipating each move. Mom’s joy of travel saw her visit many provinces in Canada, France, Cuba, the Caribbean, South Carolina, Las Vegas, Ireland, and the UK, culminating in a last grand trip to Europe in 2018.
Mom loved a good party, many laughs, a great glass of wine, and being surrounded by the love of friends and family. Her friendships spanned many generations and all ages. Mom loved unconditionally, and honoured trust, loyalty, and honesty; traits she passed on to her children. She developed three cherished friendships in her later life. Known as “The Golden Girls”, Dorothy Kellock, Marion Chabassol, and Mom, could be seen walking the street of Westville early every morning. They had many laughs and were always on the lookout for dimes and pennies! Following Dorothy’s passing, Marion and Mom were inseparable and ensured that each were living their best lives. The many shenanigans are still talked about amongst their children!
After Marion’s untimely passing, Mom was blessed to have found another cherished friendship with her neighbour Kay Hoare. Together they forged a deep and loving friendship. Kay’s attentiveness contributed greatly to Mom being able to live independently on her own terms. We are forever grateful to you Kay.
Without the excellent care provided by VON and CareForce, Mom would not have been able to live in her own home for the last 6 months of her life. We are thankful that such resources exist. Dr. Horton, Dr. Kwasnik, the palliative care team, and the staff of the Transitional Care Unit are also to be acknowledged and commended. All were kind and caring and ensured that the end of her life would be comfortable.
Visitation will take place on Tuesday, June 14, 2002 from 6:00-9:00 pm at Eagles Funeral Home, Westville. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, June 15th at 11:00 am at the Church of the Holy Name, Westville with Father Peter MacDonald officiating. Interment will be in the Holy Name Cemetery, Westville. As per Mom’s wishes, an Irish Wake will be held at a later date.
Her son-in-law Greg never said goodbye without saying, “I love ya old lady” and she always smiled and nodded, even at the end – that sentiment will live on in our hearts.