Obituary of Vera MacNeil

Vera Virginia MacNeil passed away peacefully on December 28,2014, at Northwood, Halifax. Born in Glace Bay, she was the eldest daughter of Emile and Wanda Bianco (Biella, Italy). She received her early education at St. Joseph's School, and later the Convent of the Sacred Heart School. She then attended Mount St. Vincent University where she received her Bachelor of Education. She taught elementary school in Halifax for many years, with both passion and enthusiasm. Vera later married John Henry MacNeil and had one son. Throughout their married life, they hosted refuge families from Africa and Vietnam, and worked intimately with the black communities in rural Nova Scotia. Despite the physical challenges she endured for many years, she accepted her circumstances with tolerance and grace, being a woman of tremendous Christian Faith. She never complained, and will forever remain an example for her remaining family. She is survived by her son, Iain (LynnAnne), and grandchildren (Kenzie, Abbie, Morgan, Kylie and Caelan). Predeceased by her parents; sisters, Wanda and Emily; a brother in infancy; her husband, Henry; and first grandchild, Breagh. The family wishes to extend a sincere and heartfelt thank you to all the staff at Northwood 3 Centre, to Norma Minard, and long time caregiver, Mary Redden. Your kindness and compassion over the years will forever be remembered and appreciated. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Ettinger Funeral Home, where a private family service and later internment will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Vincent DePaul Society, Northwood or a charity of your choice. Condolences, words of comfort and memories of Vera may be shared with the family at www.ettingerfuneralhome.com. "O Son of the Supreme! I have made death a messenger of joy to thee. Wherefore dost thou grieve? I made the light to shed on thee its splendor. Why dost thou veil thyself therefrom?" - Baha'u'llah