Anita Starr MacLeod

"I'm 88, I've had a wonderful life, and I have no regrets."

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother, Anita

Starr MacLeod. Born on November 20, 1936, to Starr Ross and Aggie

(MacLennan) MacLeod and raised in "The Pier," she attended Sydney Academy

before going on to build a life rich in community, family, and friendship. She was

the proud matriarch of our family and taught us the importance of kindness,

humour, and JOY in everyday life. She embodied true JOY: Jesus, Others, and

Yourself.

Anita was the cherished wife of Jack MacLeod, her devoted husband of 70

years. Together, they lived in, explored, and became valued members of many

communities. As they travelled to new places, they created lasting friendships

and built a beautiful life filled with laughter, adventure, and unwavering support

for one another.

Anita was the beloved mother of Judi (Deron), Glenn (Claudia), Keith (Shannon),

and Susan (Chester). Her grandchildren Valerie, David, Vanessa Starr, Georgia,

JoeNeil, Michael, Graham, Ashley, Matthew, Jakob Starr, April, and greatgrandchildren

Malachi, Drew, Violet, Marshall, Tatum Starr, Katherine Starr,

Addilynn, Maisy, Jovi, Matteo, and Scotlyn will forever carry the spirit of "Nanny

Cloud" forward. She was "Mom" and "Nanny" to so many beyond our immediate

family, always offering her love, warmth, and a place at the table.

She was the last surviving member of her family, being predeceased by her

siblings Rossie (Sheila), Eva "Sissy," and Roddie (Kaye). She was also

predeceased by her son, Scott, and her grandson, Matthew Keith.

Mom is also survived by her treasured sisterinlaw,

Bev Mitchelitis, who was

more like a sister and best friend, sharing so many wonderful times together.

Their marathon phone calls were the highlight of their relationship.

True to her word, Mom lived every moment with grace, humour, and deep love

for her family and friends. She was a devoted member of St. Peter's Parish, and

her faith was always at the centre of her life. She strongly believed in the power

of prayer. Praying for others was a part of her daily routine, and somehow it

always felt like her prayers carried extra strength.

Mom cherished her weekly Sunday phone calls with friends and family, staying

deeply connected with those she loved. She was active in her community and at

the heart of her many social circles, always ready to lend a helping hand.

Mom loved life, the beach, having fun with her grandchildren, a good buffet,

cheering on her favourite hockey teams, and spending time with family and

friends. She was "Queen of the Beach," savouring every minute on Ingonish

Beach surrounded by her children, grandchildren, greatgrandchildren,

cousins,

and friends.

Mom found JOY in every friendship and every memory created throughout her

life's journey. She lived with grace and always put others first. Her legacy is one

of love, kindness, generosity, humour, strength, and community. She will be

deeply missed by all who were lucky enough to have known her.

Special thanks to Dr. Ritter and the palliative care team for their compassionate

support.

Her last wish was one of generosity; she gave the ultimate gift of donating her

body to the Human Body Donation Program at Dalhousie University.

A Celebration of Life will be held at St. Peter's Parish, Ingonish Beach, on Friday,

September 5th, at 2 p.m. Reception to follow at Ceilidh Hall (Keltic Lodge). Mom

once shared that she wanted her life to be celebrated in joy and not in sorrow. In

honour of her vibrant spirit and joyful life, we ask that those attending wear

colourful attire.

In honour of Mom's memory, and in lieu of flowers, please share an egg salad

sandwich with someone you love and think of her.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Anita Starr MacLeod, please visit our floral store.