Jean Heather ( McKinnon) McNeil

It is with sorrowful hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Jean Jeannie Heather (McKinnon) McNeil, a loving daughter, sister, mother, and friend, who died on March 8, 2024, at the age of 55. After a courageous battle with illness over the previous year, she passed away in the intensive care unit (ICU) surrounded by some of her closest loved ones. Born in Glace Bay, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, on August 3, 1968, Jeannie was a bright, cheerful person to everyone she encountered. Known as the "pretty lady in pink, " her lively personality will always be connected to the colour she adored. Jeannie was the center of the party, bringing her infectious joy and energy to every get-together. Her dance talents were unrivalled, and her wit and humour were legendary, leaving everyone who knew her in admiration. Jeannie always desired the best for her two kids, Bethany McNeil (Barkin) (Halifax) and Jason McNeil (Halifax). She gave her heart and soul to raising them, teaching them the qualities of love, kindness, and resilience. Her family, friends, and everyone who knew her will miss her dearly and cherish their memories. Survived by her husband of over 25 years and life-long companion Chris McNeil (Halifax), her children Bethany and Jason, her mother-in-law Ruth (Harold) Martell (Glace Bay) and sister-in-law Lisa (Harold) MacNeil (Sydney), and her siblings: Paulette Macintosh (Ontario), Betty (Lloyd) Saniga (Ontario), Kenneth (Francine) McKinnon (Glace Bay), Cathy (Donnie) MacKenzie (Hammond's Plains), Carmie McKinnon (Lower Sackville), Ian (Wendy) McKinnon (Glace Bay), Marilyn McKinnon (Glace Bay), Cellie (Andrew) Chisholm (Lower Sackville). She is also survived by several cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister Anita McKinnon (2020) (Lower Sackville), and her parents Earl (2000) and Margaret (1999) (MacPhee) McKinnon (Glace Bay). Throughout her life, Jeannie touched the hearts of many with her kindness and warmth. She enjoyed late-night chats with friends and was the life of many Cape Breton kitchen parties, where her laughter boomed throughout the room. Her presence illuminated every event, leaving an unforgettable impression on those fortunate enough to know her. Jeannie leaves a legacy of love, laughter, and cherishable memories. Though she may no longer be with us physically, her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with her. Let us honour Jeannie's memory by remembering the joy she brought into our lives and the love she showed everyone. May her laughter resound in our memories, and may we take comfort in knowing that she is now at peace. She will be profoundly missed and affectionately remembered by her family, friends, coworkers, and everyone she touched. May she rest in eternal peace. A service will be held at a later date, and more information will be provided when the time comes. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Crohn's & Colitis Canada.

Jean Heather ( McKinnon) McNeil

August 3, 1968 - March 8, 2024