BURKE (MacDonald), Marie Elizabeth - Age 86 of Red Islands, Richmond Co., passed away at the Port Hawkesbury Nursing Home on July 9. Born in Red Islands, she was the daughter of the late James and Margaret (Campbell) MacDonald. She was a member of Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church, Johnstown. A graduate of Normal College, Marie enjoyed many years teaching, particularly in the community of Grand River, all while raising a family in Barra Head. An accomplished woman, she gardened, cooked delicious meals and pies, tailored outfits for herself and her daughters, and later, stitched beautiful quilts. She was delighted to retire to her native Red Islands, where she turned a modest bungalow into a family home for her and John, and a great summer vacation spot for her children and grand children. Summer was her favourite season on the shore of the Bras d’Or, where she liked to cool off in the lake and welcome guests. She was a kind, generous hostess to family and friends for visits and ceilidhs. Marie is survived by her children and their families: Donna (Rob, Wallis and Andrew McMillin), Cedar, B.C.; Kevin (Gitte Hansen), Scarborough, Ont.; Jean (Blair and Nigel Landry), Evanston, N.S.; Jim (Julie Warner), Penticton, B.C.; Lisa (Kevin, Conor and Lindsay Doyle), Ottawa, Ont.; her sister Eileen Sampson, Red Islands; brother-in-law Malcolm MacDonald, Eastern Passage; sisters-in-law Anna MacDonald, L’Ardoise, Judith MacDonald, Bridgewater, and Reyonalda MacDonald, East Bay; many nieces and nephews; and her extended family of Vincent Burke (Anne), Lower L’Ardoise. Marie was predeceased by her husband John, their son Phillip, her sister Rita, and her brothers James, Jackie and Michael. She will rest next to Phillip and John in the Barra Head cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In the meantime, in Marie’s memory, share your creativity and love with family and friends. Her children will always remember her unwavering devotion to them and her great sense of humour. The family wishes to thank the staff at the Port Hawkesbury Nursing Home for their care and kindness. Memorial donations may be made to the Red Islands Volunteer Fire Department. Arrangements are under the care of Dennis Haverstock Funeral Home, Port Hawkesbury. Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at: www.haverstocks.com Burial Information Burial Date At a later date Burial Location Immaculate Conception Parish Cemetery, Barra Head