Obituary of Norma Helen MacKellar
It is with great sadness that the family of Norma MacKellar announce her passing in Saint John, NB on Friday, July 17, 2020, after a brief encounter with cancer. She was born on April 9, 1959 to the late James and Frances (Pinney) MacKellar.
Norma is survived by her husband of 33 years Douglas Kelly, and her two wonderful sons Ian (Beth) and Colin (Paula), her sister Lorraine Davis, brother Stephen (Stephanie) MacKellar and her nieces and nephews Ryan, Torrey, Katelyn, Amber, Sabrina and Blair.
All her life Norma had an insatiable curiousity which led her to study Marine Biology at UNBSJ. A year later she then studied at St. Thomas University where she received her Education degree.
Teaching allowed her to live and travel in two regions that totally fascinated her. She taught and lived in Botswana in Southern Africa for two and a half years, and then in Thompson in northern Manitoba for 3 years.
It was in Thompson that Norma and Doug met and got married. From the beginning, and for the next 33 years they were inseparable and faced many adventures with love and happiness.
After Thompson they moved to Black River, NB where they lived overlooking the Bay of Fundy, a view Norma thoroughly enjoyed for the 25 years they were there. Here they raised their two sons. During that time Norma stayed home raising their children, while trying her hand at raising chickens, gardening, and a number of small job opportunities. She is delighted with the two fine young men the boys have grown into.
Besides her family, Norma’s other passions were for community service, Social Justice, and the Environment. She has constantly volunteered her time starting with the Girl Guide movement in her teens. Other organizations that she has been involved with over the years include Canadian Crossroads International, DENiM in Manitoba, the New Brunswick Orchid Society, the Fundy Fringe Festival, the Green Party, and Leap4Wards.
Most importantly for those who knew her, Norma was a loving, committed friend. Always available to help and counsel in times of joy and trouble.
Special thanks are extended to the Palliative Care team and the people at Extra Mural.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions a private graveside service will take place at Fernhill Cemetery. A Celebration of Norma’s life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424).
