Bernice MacDonald, a beloved mother, wife, and cherished member of the family, passed away on April 4, 2024 at the age of 86. Bernice was born on January 6, 1938, in Cape Breton, and later moved to the mainland, where she met her husband, Leo MacDonald. Together, they settled in Antigonish, where Bernice dedicated her life to caring for others.

Bernice was a dedicated employee at St. Martha Hospital and St. Francis Xavier University, where she touched the lives of many with her kindness and compassion. She was known for her welcoming nature, always opening her home to anyone in need, and her generosity knew no bounds.

Bernice was the daughter of the late Ronald "Rannie" and Catherine "Katie" (Spencer) Gillis. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family and was predeceased by her husband, Leo, and siblings Clement (Alice), Jackie (Jim), Sheldon, Alister, and Ronald (infancy). She is survived by her three children, Leona (Mark Lavers), Colin MacDonald (Susan), and Francis MacDonald, who will forever cherish her memory. She is also survived by sister-in-law, Florence, and brother-in-law, John Dan, and grandchildren Joshua and Luc (Olivia), along with many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express their thanks to the staff at Townsview Estates for their compassionate care in Bernice's final years.

A funeral service will be held at St. Ninian Cathedral on April 26 at 11:00am, followed by interment at St. Ninian Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, to honor the life and memory of Bernice, we invite all who knew Bernice, to carry forward her compassion and kindness, by performing an act of kindness. Whether it is lending a helping hand to a neighbor, volunteering at a local charity, or simply sharing a kind word with someone in need, these gestures will reflect the love and generosity Bernice embodied throughout her life.