Patricia Ann Mcneill

Patricia Ann McNeill

Patricia Ann McNeill. Born January 19, 1942 in Halifax, died March 15, 2023 in Toronto. Mother of Sarah Smith and Sandy Donaldson. Grandmother of Stella Smith, Walker Smith, and Lily Donaldson. Daughter of Francis “Peg” McNeill and Anne-Marie McNeill.

Pat was born during the Second World War and had lifelong respect for veterans, having served in the Air Force Reserves herself. Pat met George Donaldson in Summerside where they were wed. They were married for twenty years and had two children before parting ways. Pat taught school in Summerside alongside her father “Peg” and continued as an educator in Toronto where she obtained a Master’s degree. Pat and George raised two kids in Ottawa, where she served as vice-principal at a number of high schools including the High School of Commerce and Ottawa Technical High School. Pat was an avid reader, bridge player and lifelong amateur political critic.

Pat’s sense of humour was legendary. She could make anyone smile, and everyone who met her felt instantly comfortable and special. She was a heroic mother who would have done anything for her children and often did. In her older years, Pat lived for her grandchildren. Stella, Walker, and Lily were fortunate enough to get to know her well, hear her improvised stories, and laugh at her never-ending jokes.

In her wonderful cottages in the Gatineau hills and on the shores of her beloved island, Pat would greet the day by going outside and crying “Hello World!” Today the world says “goodbye” to Pat, but those who loved her will continue this ritual and greet each day as she did at her best with joy, humour, and love.

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