Obituary of Frances Veronica Fitzgerald

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dear friend and  Grandmother by choice.  Frances Veronica (MacDonald) Fitzgerald passed away peacefully on September 12, 2019 at RK MacDonald Nursing Home, surrounded by loved ones. We are forever grateful for the compassionate care she received in her final days.

Born in Halifax, to the late Hugh and Catherine (Warner), Frances always felt most at home in the city although she did live in Antigonish for nearly 20 years, making many friends in both communities.   

Frances was tiny in stature but huge in personality.  She could light up any room with her quick wit and sense of humour, making her a favourite at card plays and dances at “the club”.  Frances loved a good card game and a chance to try her luck at the casino. She could smell a card cheat a mile away.

Frances’ zest for life was unmatched and her energy infectious. Never wasting one day of her 97 years, she learned to rollerblade at 70 and took up line dancing in her 80’s.  She had a great love for the outdoors, fishing, gardening, and had a special way with animals. 

Her patience and compassion was most evident when she was with children.  Never having children of her own, she proudly stepped into the role of Grandmother to “the Brophy’s”. She was always keen to play and chat, and took great joy in spending time with the “little ones”.  She took them to bingo at the legion or for a sleepover whenever she had the chance. Her grandchildren and later great grandchildren were her pride and joy, and the feeling was mutual.  We will all miss our time with Frances and her many stories.

A breast cancer survivor, Frances had faced more adversity In her 97 years than most, yet faced everything with grace and positivity. Never one to complain, she asked for nothing and was always helping those less fortunate.  A devoted Catholic, she embodied the christian spirit.

Frances is predeceased by her husband Duncan Fitzgerald, her parents, siblings and special niece Dianne.

She will be forever remembered and loved by her dear friends, Joseph MacGillivray, Vivian and Finley Brophy, as well as her grandchildren by choice, Tammy Brophy, Randy (Jennifer) Brophy, Shauna (Daniel) Ross, Paula (Leo) Murphy, Kim (Ronnie) Archibald and her 11 great-grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of MacIsaac Funeral Home, Antigonish.  Private service to take place at a later date.  Memorial donations may be made to the Friends of the RK. www.MacIsaacs.ca