Melissa Lillian MacIsaac, 92

Glace Bay Nova Scotia

Melissa Lillian MacIsaac, 92, of Glace Bay passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025, surrounded by her loving family at Wynn Park Villa in Truro NS. Mom was born on Nov. 9, 1933, in Dominion, N.S. She was the daughter of the late Malcolm and Lorna MacPherson.

Lillian dedicated her life to creating a warm and nurturing home for her husband, Robert, for over 60 years as well as their three children.

Lillians' greatest joy came from spending time with her family and fostering a loving environment. Her homemade turkey dinners with gravy were legendary in the family, and her holiday gatherings at the MacIsaac household were eagerly anticipated by family and friends alike. Lillians' love for nurturing things was evident in her beautiful boys, which she loved unconditionally.

Moms' passion in her life, was her children and grandchildren, all of whom she loved dearly and spoke highly about daily.

Lillian graduated from Glace Bay General Hospital in 1955 with her RN. She then went on to work at Glace Bay General Hospital in her nursing field.

Later in life, she raised three wonderful boys Darryl, Wayne and David, only to return to the workforce in her later years before retirement. She went to work at Seaview Manor in Glace Bay, then she decided it was time to retire and enjoy her golden years.

She was a member of the Bowling MacIsaac family on afternoons at Knox bowling lanes.

Also, Lillian was a Member of Glace Bay's Wednesday night card club –where they had such joy in coming together and in being with friends and laughter the entire night. They played cards, told stories, and were delighted in the food of whomever hosted the card night.

She was a fan of any team of David, Wayne or Darryl, and attended their sports events when she was able.

Lillian loved Sunday drives with Robert, the weekly trip to Walmart. She also enjoyed going to the hairdressers and the interactions with the staff. Simple joys brought her most pleasure.

Most importantly a great wife, Mother, grandparent, friend, and matriarch to many. Lillian will be best known for her warm hugs, radiant smile, extreme generosity and love for her family and friends. Above all else, Lillian lived her life with kindness and generosity and was an example to us all.

Lillian is survived by her three sons, Darryl MacIsaac (Lori), David MacIsaac (Julie), Wayne MacIsaac; one sister, Julia Mosley (Terry). Grandchildren, Lilly, Ben, Sarah, Kaitlin, Rebecca, Danielle, Nicole, Craig and Alexander; great-grandchildren, Stephen, Heather, Jacob, Scarlett, Jonah and Madden as well as several nephews and nieces.

Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Robert Alexander MacIsaac, brother, Malcolm MacPherson and brother, Ronald “Brassy” MacPherson.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held on Friday, January 2, 2025, from 1-2 p.m., with a Memorial Service to follow at 2 p.m., all in Glace Bay United Church (formerly Warden United) 44 Fifth St., Glace Bay, with Rev. Dana Feltmate presiding. Reception to follow. Interment to be held at a later date in Forest Haven Memorial Gardens cemetery.

Flowers or memorial donations may be made to Warden United Church or Wynn Park Villa Recreation Dept in Truro, N.S.

“Her hands gave comfort, her heart gave light,

She turned our darkness into bright.

Though gone from sight, she’s never far—

Her love still guides us, like a star.”

“Lillian “Ma” MacIsaac”

We would like to thank the staff of Colchester East Hants Health Center 2E for Lillian’s care and Dr Michael Gallivan over the years for his unconditional care of Lillian. As well, the management and staff of Wynn Park Villa -North Wing for their kind care, support and love, for our mother, who made her stay comfortable.

A special thank you to Cheryl Hall, a neighbor that grew to more like family, over the years, lending a helping hand.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to T.J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, Glace Bay (902) 849-4199. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.tjtracey.com.