Obituary of Mary Catherine MacAloney

MacAloney, Mary Catherine, age 93 of New Glasgow, formally of Stellarton, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2026, in Glen Haven Manor.  Mary was born in New Glasgow, the daughter of the late Richard Daniel and Mary Ellen McPherson (MacKay).  

Mary treasured the many happy memories of her childhood growing up on the Red Row in Stellarton. She often reminisced about those early years and looked forward to spending summer weekends in Lismore with her family, where time together and simple pleasures created memories she carried with her throughout her life.

After school, she obtained her Master Hairstylist locally and was employed at Christine MacInnis’ Beauty Salon in Stellarton before opening her own salon in Stellarton above the Scotiabank called Mary’s Beauty Shop.  After about 8 years of operating her own salon, she became the hairdresser at Glen Haven Manor, New Glasgow. This was a position that Mary held until she had to retire for health reasons.

Mary was a very religious person; a devout Catholic through and through.  She attended Our Lady of Lourdes church daily for most of her life.  Mary was a member of the CWL and past president of Our Lady of Lourdes CWL.  She watched daily mass on television when she could no longer attend mass and always had a rosary nearby.

Mary met the love of her life, Jack MacAloney, and they were married on August 3, 1966. From that day forward, they were inseparable, sharing nearly six decades of love, laughter, faith, and devotion. Whether travelling, attending old-time dances, or simply sitting together on their porch listening to old-time music, Jack was the center of Mary's world, and together they built a life rooted in kindness, generosity, and unwavering love.

Mary and Jack were known for their generous hearts and willingness to help others. Mary volunteered her time wherever she was needed, quietly made anonymous donations to local charities and she shared her musical gifts by playing the piano for Mass at Glen Haven Manor. Together, they were always there for family and friends, offering support whenever it was needed and expecting nothing in return.

Surviving are sister, Diane McPherson, New Glasgow; brother, John “Duggie” McPherson Sr., Stellarton; niece, Jane (Peter) MacDonald, and son, Chris; nephews, Richard McPherson and children, Noah and Claire; Michael (Jocelyn) McPherson and children, Leah and Robert; Brian McPherson; LCol Dr. John “Duggie” McPherson Jr. and children, Jack, Jennifer and Ches.

Besides her parents, Mary was predeceased by her infant brother, Richard Daniel MacPherson Jr., and by her beloved husband, John Walker “Jack” MacAloney, sisters-in-law; Sharon McPherson and Mabel Smith as well as many more relatives.

Visitation will be 2-4 p.m. Sunday, July 5 in P. & K. MacDonald Funeral Home, New Glasgow.   Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m. Monday, July 6 in the Church of the Holy Name, Westville with Father Peter J. MacDonald presiding. Interment will be in Our Lady of Lourdes Cemetery, Stellarton.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Deacon Sander Burke, Dr. Gregor MacLean, Dr. Riviera, the nursing staff of 4 South and 5 South at Aberdeen Hospital, the staff of the Sutherland Harris Memorial Hospital Restorative Care Unit in Pictou, Pictou County VON and the compassionate staff of Glen Haven Manor for their exceptional care and kindness. Special thanks to Debbie Kennedy, Colette Forbes, Barbara Sutherland and Angus MacPherson.

Family flowers only. Donations may be made to Our Lady of Lourdes Cemetery Fund or a charity of your choice.

Lovingly written by Mike and Jocelyn