Marie E. (Carrigan) Macneil

Marie E. (Carrigan) MacNeil, 51, of Sydney, N.S., passed away suddenly, but peacefully, on Sept. 10, 2010, at the QE II Health Sciences Centre.Born in New Waterford, Marie was raised on Warren Avenue, the daughter of Marie and the late John Joe Carrigan.Marie will be forever cherished as a devoted, loving wife to husband John C. MacNeil, and caring, loving mother to daughters, Stephanie Gardiner (Matt), Sydney, N.S., Vanessa MacNeil (Robert), Antigonish County, N.S.; and son, Andrew MacNeil (Lindsay), at home.Besides her mother, Marie is survived by brothers, Rick Carrigan (Valerie), Mike Carrigan (Sherry); sisters, Pat Hogan (Art) all located in New Waterford, N.S., and Diane Kennedy (Colin), Antigonish County, N.S. Marie is also survived by brothers-in-law, Lorne MacNeil (Cheryl), Roger MacNeil (Carol), Ross MacNeil (Barbara); and sister-in-law, Glenda MacNeil (Hector). Marie is survived by mother-in-law, Rodena MacNeil; as well as many special nieces, nephews, and cousins.Besides her father, Marie was predeceased by brother, John Robert Bob' Carrigan, brother-in-law, Gary MacNeil and father-in-law, John J. MacNeil.At the time of her death, Marie was employed at the Cove Guest Home, Sydney, as a continuing care assistant. She took great pride in caring for the residents, and aspired to be a wonderful mentor for students. Marie was dedicated to improving the lives of others; she believed that a caring touch and warm smile could make a world of difference. Marie will continue to improve others' health and quality of life by being an organ donor.Prior to working at the Cove, Marie was employed at The Bay store, Sydney, ladies wear department where she excelled in customer service and secured many friendships, with both co-workers and customers.Marie's true passion in life was spending time with family and friends. She enjoyed running the roads,' stopping in for a coffee and some laughs with loved ones. Marie had a helping hand, a listening ear and a kind heart. Her presence will be missed by all who were fortunate to have known her.Cremation has taken place. A gathering to celebrate Marie's life will be held at McLellan Brothers Funeral Home, 3183 Plummer Ave., New Waterford, on Monday, Sept. 13 from 6-9 p.m. Interment will take place at Union Grove Cemetery, Scotchtown.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cape Breton SPCA, or a charity of one's choice.