Sydney
It is with shattered hearts that we announce the passing of our beautiful sister, mother and friend. Jo-Ann passed away on Tuesday, September 8th, 2020 at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital in Sydney.
Born on April 21, 1955 in Sydney, Jo-Ann was the daughter of the late Dorothy (Gillis) and John F. MacNeil.
Jo-Ann is survived by her six sisters, Lois (Scott) Parker, Cathy MacNeil, Phyllis MacNeil, Dorothy MacNeil, Theresa (Dan)McCarthy, Sheri (Jim) Gillis; son, Terry (Lisa) Robertson; grandson, Hayden; as well as nieces and nephews, Robin, Donnie, Mark, Matthew and Landon.
Jo-Ann was a kind, loving, free spirited soul who was as gentle as a butterfly. She loved nature, music, and painting and practiced her portrait art on several of her resistant sisters. Her kind and gentle nature was evident to all who knew her. Her soft giggle was often heard in the room when spending time with her friends and family.
Her most passionate role was that of mother. Her absolute pride and joy was her son, Terry. We fondly remember her walking down Havelock Street with him for a visit to “nannie’s house”. Her constant companions were her sisters, Dorothy and Cathy with whom she shared a very special bond, and that of her life-long friend, Hughena. Her sweet grandson, Hayden, was a source of great joy to her. Jo-Ann’s loving nature extended to all that knew her, including any stray cat that appeared on her doorstep. We know that her spirit will shine as brightly in her rest as it did in this life.
There will be no visitation. A private family graveside service will be held in Resurrection Cemetery, Sydney Forks.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.
Online Condolences
T
My heart is broken for having lost a dear friend. Joann and I went to Business College together and when I met her, we instantly bonded and her loving family welcomed me into their home. Joann and I remained friends in spite of our lives going in different directions. We maintained contact through social media but whenever we met, the bond was still as strong. It is with a heavy heart that I learned of her passing. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends. I will always remember Joann as a kind and loving person who adored her family. She spoke often about Terry, Lisa and Hayden and her wonderful sisters. I will miss you my sweet friend!
Terry me and Emily want to offer you and your family our deepest condolences. So sorry for your loss
My deepest condolences.
I remember Jo-Ann as a kind and gentle person; perhaps quiet, but always conscious of her surroundings and fun-loving. I admired the closeness of all her sisters.
May your sorrows be surrounded with abundant blessings.
My sincere condolences to Jo-Ann’s family on her passing. Growing up in the north-end with her , Hughena and her sisters was such a blessing. Jo_Ann was such a sweet person even as a child, so kind and gentle. I will remember her always.
Terry, we are so sorry to hear about your mom. Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you. We are here for you. Craig & Dana MacMaster
Our sincere sympathies Theresa and to the rest of the family She was a sweet soul May she Rest In Peace
It is with utter disbelief that I heard of Jo-Ann’s passing. Heaven has gained such a sweet person! My deepest condolences to all the family. 😢💔
Lois, Cathy, Phyllis, Theresa,Dorothy, & Sherrie,
So sad to hear of cousin Jo Ann’s passing. I am happy I had a chance to chat with her @ Aunt Dorothy’s wake.
She was a sweet girl, may she Rest In Peace.
Hugs to all
Cousin Denise Gillis MacNeil
So sorry to hear about Jo Ann’s passing, may she rest in peace. Our deepest sympathy to the family. Anne & Kevin
We are very sorry to hear of JoAnn’s passing. Deepest sympathies to all of her family.
Jane & Ann MacNeil
My sincere condolences the the MacNeil family. I always have fond memories of Jo-Ann.. She was a lovely lady.
Lois and families
So sad to read of the passing of your wonderful sister, may the many happy memories of good times shared help at this difficult time.
Grant her eternal rest.
May God bless you and care for your entire family.
Cheryl & Terry
Very surprised and saddened to learn of Jo Ann’s passing. To Terry Jr. and all of her family please accept my deepest sympathy.
So sorry to hear of your loss. I have fond memories of Jo-Ann and Hughena as camp counsellors out Kamp Beaver in 1974 and of visiting Jo-Ann at her home on Havelock St. on different occasions. Such a beautiful soul – fly high sweet one!!