Debra Ann MacKay

OBITUARY OF DEBRA ANN MACKAY It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Debra Ann Mac Kay, age 67, of Halifax, NS, and formerly of Truro, NS, on July 15, 2024. Debbie passed peacefully in her sleep at home with her beloved cat “Sparky” curled up by her side. Born in Truro, Sept. 3, 1956, Debbie was the daughter of Frank and Marjorie (Thomson) MacKay. Debbie was predeceased by her parents, paternal grandparents, Daniel and Minnie (Gower) MacKay, and maternal grandparents, James and Lydia (Conrad) Thomson. She was also predeceased by her niece Deborah Aileen Musgrave, and sister-in-law Janice MacKay. She will be dearly missed by her sisters Patricia (Elroy) Tattrie of Lower Onslow, NS, Linda (Bart) Musgrave of Sackville, NB, and brothers Kelly (Angela) MacKay of Marshville, NS, and Wayne MacKay of Sackville, NB, as well as her nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. Deb spent her formative years living in Truro until graduating from the Cobequid Educational Centre, and being accepted into a BA program at Acadia University, Wolfville, NS. Following two years of study, she moved to Halifax, and accepted a position with General Accident Insurance where she was employed for 8 years. Debbie decided to return to her hometown of Truro, and was employed by the Truro Daily News as a sales representative in their advertising department for 22 years. She was very successful at her job due to her diligent work ethic, her outgoing personality, and ability to connect with people. Debbie had charisma and would light up a room with her presence. In 2013, Debbie moved back to Halifax, and worked in sales at Bell Aliant for a couple years. Deciding on a career change, Debbie enrolled in the Eastern College CCA Training Program. She graduated as a registered Continuing Care Assistant, and worked for the Canadian Red Cross providing long term care assistance to the aging community. Unfortunately, an injury from a fall, and other health issues prevented Deb from remaining in this type of employment, and subsequently she retired in 2020. For most of her life, Debbie was able to engage in an active lifestyle. She enjoyed working out regularly at the fitness centre, taking long walks, biking, and swimming at the beach. She cherished spending time with her family and friends at the cottages in Marshville, Brule Point, and Murray Corner, where everyone would gather for get-togethers in the summer. She also enjoyed trying new activities, such as wind-surfing and kayaking. She loved parties and dressing up for Halloween…she was a lot of fun! Deb was an avid reader, a great conversationalist, and loved to engage in discussions on politics and current events. Over time, Deb rescued, loved and cared for several cats …Ruby, Miss Kitty, Angel, Osama Bin Kitty, Tiger, Missy, Simba, and her last faithful companion, Sparky. During the past few years, Debbie’s health and mobility declined significantly. Our family would like to extend our heart felt appreciation to our cousins, Karen and Marjorie MacKay, who always looked out for Debbie…taking her to many appointments, picking up her groceries, taking her on outings especially to the beach when she was still able to go, and so much more. They helped take care of Debbie during a very difficult time in her life. God Bless Earth Angels because they really do exist! Cremation has taken place as per Debbie’s wishes, and a celebration of Debbie’s life will be held at a later date. Sharing of memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting the online memorial at Harbourside Crematorium, Halifax, NS https://www.harboursidecremation.ca/ Donations in memory of Debbie may be made the your local SPCA or to a charity of your choice.

Debra Ann MacKay

September 3, 1956 - July 15, 2024