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We regret to announce the passing of William Archibald MacDonald (“Hoof”) on February 19, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in North Sydney, William was the son of the late William and Miriam (Hayward) MacDonald. Dad was a coal miner who worked in the mines for over 35 years, providing faithfully for his family and taking great pride in his hard work.
He was a devoted member of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, where he served on a number of committees over the years and remained active in his church community.
Earlier this year, William was predeceased by his beloved wife, Mora Jeanette (Stephenson) MacDonald—a loss he never truly recovered from. Their love and devotion to one another were evident to all who knew them.
He is survived by his children, William D. (Tracey) MacDonald, Shawn (Jeannie) MacDonald, and Jennifer (Clayton) Keeping. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Breanna, Ella, Cailum, Mary, Charlie, William, Conor, and Logan, as well as his great-grandson, Elijah, who brought him immense pride and joy.
William is also survived by his brother, Brian MacDonald of Toronto; his nieces, Kim and Tanya, and their mother, Marrie Anderson; his grand-nephew, Jordan MacDonald; and his brother-in-law, Donald (Heather) Stephenson.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 25, from 6–8 p.m. at JM Jobes Funeral Home. A church service will take place on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 2 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Sydney Mines, with Rev. Ken McLeod officiating.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of 2 West and 4 West at Northside General Hospital, as well as to his physician, Dr. Andrew Wawe, for their care and compassion over the years.
William will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose quiet strength and deep love for his family will never be forgotten.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William Archibald MacDonald, please visit our floral store.