It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Alva MacNeil on December 25, 2025, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, after a long struggle with kidney disease.

Alva was born in Glace Bay in August of 1956 to the late Daniel Thomas and Josephine (Dunphy) MacNeil. She was the fourth youngest of ten children.

Alva was a loving sister, aunt, and friend. She was an honorary grandmother to Dillan MacNeil, Ari MacDonald, and Adrianna Barrasso. She loved skiing, crafting, playing cards, travelling, and spending time with her nieces and nephews. Alva worked for many years at The Strait Richmond Hospital and retired to Irish Vale to her beautiful lake view.

Alva is survived by her sister, Anne McNamara; brothers, Gerard (Wanda) MacNeil, Kevin MacNeil, and Gerry MacNeil; sisters-in-law, Donna MacNeil, and Donna Johnson; brother-in-law, Conrad Burke; many nieces, nephews and grand nieces and nephews.

She is predeceased by her parents, Tom and Josie MacNeil; sisters, Jean Barasso and Wanda Burke; brothers, Jimmy MacNeil, Donnie MacNeil, and John MacNeil; brothers-in-law, Valentine McNamara, Pat Barasso; sisters-in-law, Shirley MacNeil and Patsy MacNeil; and many aunts and uncles.

The family wishes to thank the staff of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, especially 4A, Dr Hewlett, and everyone at the dialysis unit for the exceptional care given to Alva and her family.

Special thanks to Wilma Conrad for giving Alva the gift of life, a new kidney. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Kidney Foundation.

Cremation has taken place under the care and direction of TJ Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, 6 Churchill Drive, Sydney, NS, 902-539-7175. No visitation by request. Funeral mass and burial will take place at a later date.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.tjtracey.com.