MERIGOMISH – Mildred Irene MacDonald, 92, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, December 12, 2019, surrounded by the love of family. Born in Merigomish, she was a daughter of the late Frank Herbert and Hazel Vern (Blair) MacDonald. Mildred began her education in the Merigomish one-room school house and at the age of 13 enrolled in Horton Academy, Wolfville, where she completed her secondary education. She then completed her undergraduate degree at Acadia University. Mildred began her working career at the former Trenton Steel Works, before moving to Toronto, where she was employed with a corporate law firm for two years. Upon her return to Halifax, she accepted a position as Secretary to the Dean of Dalhousie Law School, from where she retired as Administrator after 30 years of service in June 1992. Throughout her career, Mildred was appreciated for her dedication, knowledge and friendship. She enjoyed living in Halifax and the camaraderie of her wonderful circle of close friends. Mildred was a devoted patron of the Arts, canoeing enthusiast, avid skier, swimmer and walker. Upon retirement, she returned to her beloved family home in Merigomish. Her family and friends have fond memories of seeing Mildred out every day walking her dog, Jack, working in her garden or mowing her lawn until the age of 91 and of her countless walks and swims at Big Island Beach. Mildred was a faithful member of St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, Merigomish, where she had served in various capacities over the years. She was a lady, who possessed genuine kindness and compassion for others, always there for those in need, often arriving at a door with a tin of cookies in hand. Mildred was a true friend, who never spoke ill of anyone. To her nieces and nephews, whom she loved as her own, she leaves a wonderful example of unparalleled dignity, trustworthiness, humility and compassion. Surviving are nieces and nephews, Stephanie (Mike), Julie (Gerald), Karen, Rob (Nancy), Linda, Norval (Linda), Jane (Don) and Steven; grand nieces and grand nephews, Nathan, Cameron, Mike, Gregory (Krista), Natalie (Jessie), Lawson, Derek (Alison), Alyson, Jason (Alicia), Dale (Ellen), Blair (Sarah), Nicholas (Lori), Lauren (Graham), Sheri (Geoff) and Matthew (Christy); many great-nieces and great-nephews; sisters-in-law, Joyce MacDonald, Riverton; Adelaide MacDonald, Merigomish; cousin, Irene Murray, New Glasgow; friends, Nita MacDonald, St. John’s, Nfld.; Marion Porter, Halifax; many cousins. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by sister, Marion Fulton; brothers, Norval and Harry MacDonald; a niece in infancy; sister-in-law, Agnes MacDonald; and brother-in-law, Lawson Fulton. In honour of Mildred’s wishes, her life will be celebrated privately. Mildred’s family greatly appreciate the love and kindness of Mildred’s friends, Hilda, Noreen, Jackie and Debbie. If desired, donations may be made in Mildred’s memory to St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church or Riverview Cemetery , Merigomish. (To donate online, please click on one of the underlined charities.)