Obituary of Stella Marie MacKenzie

Stella Marie MacKenzie
November 7, 1944 – December 30, 2024

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the sudden passing of Stella Marie MacKenzie on December 30th, surrounded by the love of her family. Born in New Glasgow and raised in Stellarton, Stella was always proud of her upbringing on Red Row. Stella was the daughter of Ernest and Sophie (Kowalski) Cormier. She was the eldest sibling to Virginia (Dolly), Ernestine (Nunu), and Joe, all of whom predeceased her.

Stella leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth that touched countless lives. She was Hugh's cherished wife, her devoted partner for 56 years. Their enduring bond was a testament to their deep love and unwavering commitment to each other and their family.

A doting mother, Stella's heart overflowed with pride for her children: Shelley (Robert Sutherland), David (Adele Morar), Michael (Sarah), and Melissa (Chris Warren). Her home was always open, a haven for her children's friends. Stella was never really sure who would be in her Irving Street kitchen come morning but all were always welcome. She worked hard to ensure her home was filled with laughter, delicious food, and a comforting presence.

We would be doing a great disservice if we left out how hard she worked to make everything special. We are left with memories and traditions that are more precious than gold.

Stella possessed an unmatched ability to make everyone feel welcome and cared for.

She was the funniest person we knew, with a remarkable talent for turning everything into a song.  She was also the Queen of nicknames. The best ones were the ones people didn’t know they had. Her quick wit will be one of the things we miss most.

Her kind and generous heart was not limited to people. She was the proud caretaker, along with her husband, of her precious crows. We received phone calls telling us how much the crows enjoyed the leftovers we sent over. It was her hobby, and their visits were something she looked forward to every day.

One of Stella's greatest joys was being Nan to fourteen adored grandchildren: Meghan, Abby, Alex, Amber, Skylar, Ali, Jenna, Henry, Noah, Eric, Ella-Jean, Sophia, Ella, and Leah. Each held a special place in her heart, and her love for them knew no bounds. "Nan" will be deeply missed by each and every one of them.

Stella was a familiar face at the Westside Family Restaurant for over forty years. Beginning at the young age of sixteen, she dedicated her working life to serving others. Even a brief move to Ontario couldn't keep her away for long, and upon her return to Nova Scotia, she resumed her place, continuing to greet patrons with a smile well into the 2000s. Her coworkers and customers became an extension of her family, forging bonds that lasted a lifetime.

Stella's warm heart and unwavering generosity will be forever etched in the memories of all who knew her. She will be profoundly missed by her husband, children, grandchildren, and the countless lives she touched throughout her remarkable life.

The family would like to thank the paramedics who quickly responded in the early hours of December 30th and all the Aberdeen Hospital Emergency Department and Palliative Care Unit staff for their care.

Visitation will be held from 2-4pm and 7-9pm on Friday January 3rd at Eagles Funeral Home.