MacNeil (O'Handley), Teresa Marie

Halifax / Sydney Mines, NS

May 28, 1928 - July 01, 2025

Hard to put this into words, but Teresa Marie (O’Handley) MacNeil who was so lively, quick witted, full of sass and a true Cape Bretoner passed peacefully at Northwood Terrace with her daughter, by her side, on July 1st 2025, at the age of 97.

Born in Sydney Mines, on May 28th, 1928, Teresa was the daughter of the late Angus O’Handley and Sarah (Davidson) O’Handley.

She was a predeceased by her husband, Ambrose MacNeil and infant son John Ambrose. Teresa was also predeceased by her brothers Hugh, Amenia NY, Albert Ohio, and Daniel Oregon.

She is survived by her daughter Maureen (Michael) Kennedy Bedford and Granddaughters Kathleen (Greg) Edmonton Maggie (Ossie) Dartmouth and her beloved Granddog Rosie.

Teresa was never shy to offer her opinion on any matter or issue, politics included. She could share a lively conversation with anyone of any age up until the time she passed. She had a passion for shopping and loved a good bargain. Of course, shopping at the Mayfower Mall and on Charlotte Street in Sydney, was also a social experience for Teresa.

Teresa was a member of Immaculate Conception Parish in Sydney Mines, where she belonged to the Catholic Women’s League (CWL). She attended Notre Dame School and completed Mount St. Joseph Business Program in North Sydney. Upon her retirement from the Government, (due to her marriage in 1952) she was driven to continue working. Teresa helped her husband in his photography studio. She volunteered her time with the Salvation Army, Brownies and Girl Guides, the Northside Speech and Music Festivals and the Northside Theatrical Society. For many years she wrote obituaries for the Cape Breton Post.

Teresa was determined, full of grit and never let her Polio keep her from living life to the fullest. She will also be remembered for her baking and always opening her home to family and friends, including her nieces and nephews from Upstate New York, who spent many summers in Cape Breton. Fortunately, we had an opportunity to celebrate Teresa on her 97th birthday with family and friends across many generations, where she got to enjoy sharing her special recipes and fond memories.

There is no doubt that the Northwood team gave so much to Teresa during her stay. They made her feel like there was always something to look forward to. With their assistance, she was able to keep her love of style as they helped her choose her outfits each day. Teresa’s family so appreciate the contributions of the Northwood team and the wonderful care she received in her final days.

Teresa will be laid to rest at home in Cape Breton in the fall, which was her favourite time of year.

Donations in Teresa’s honour can be made online to Northwood Foundation or mail to 130 Eileen Stubbs Ave., Suite 1, South, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, B3B 2CA.