Obituary of Florence Anita MacLean

Mrs. Florence Anita Jane MacLean (Murphy), Beaver Meadow, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 23rd at St. Martha’s Hospital in Antigonish, Nova Scotia at the age of 76.

Florence was predeceased by her parents Bernard & Catherine Murphy of Beaver Meadow, siblings Theresa, Hugh Bernard, John-Arthur, and Fraser. She is survived by her husband John J. MacLean of Beaver Meadow; children: Brian MacLean, Kevin MacLean (Margot Sadler), Christopher MacLean (Cindy), Shawn MacLean (Susan Cameron), and Salva MacLean; grandchildren: Brittany MacIntosh (Barrett), Logan MacLean, Michael MacLean, and Ian MacLean; great granddaughter Lumen MacIntosh; siblings: Anne, DJ, and Salva.

Florence was born on November 24, 1942 in Ohio, Antigonish County, to parents Bernard and Catherine Murphy. She was a graduate of St. Martha’s School of Nursing in 1964. Florence married her best friend and the love of her life, John J. MacLean on September 5, 1965 in St. Joseph’s Church. Florence began her career as a nurse in Chicago but soon thereafter moved to Brockville, Ontario. After a short time in Brockville, John and Florence moved back to Antigonish where Florence then served many fulfilling years at St. Martha’s Hospital. Upon leaving St. Martha’s she began a new career with the Victorian Order of Nurses where she would finish out her career as a nurse before retiring. Over the years the couple welcomed five children into their lives. Her children remember her as a passionate, devoted, thoughtful and loving mother who encouraged them to follow their dreams.

Florence was passionate about many things including her family, faith, community and nursing. She was a generous and dedicated individual who volunteered for 53 years with the Catholic Women’s League not only as a member but also held several executive positions. Florence always had a hot cup of tea and a biscuit ready for anyone who stopped in. Her door was always open and she’d welcome you with open arms whether you were looking for a hug, a smiling face, or just to talk.

Visitation 2-4 and 7-9 pm Sunday, July 29, in MacIsaac Funeral Home, 61 Pleasant St., Antigonish. Funeral Mass 11:00 am Monday, July 29 in St. Joseph’s Church, Fr. Lazarus Guria and Fr. Daniel MacDonald presiding. Burial in the parish cemetery. Reception to follow at St. Joseph’s Hall.  All are welcome to attend and celebrate the beautiful life of Florence MacLean. In her memory she would like a simple act of kindness performed and/or donations sent to The Canadian Cancer Society.

Condolences can be sent to www.MacIsaacs.ca  The family would like to sincerely thank the kind-hearted staff at both St. Martha’s Regional Hospital and the Victoria General in Halifax.