Mary MacKay passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 98 on April 26, 2025, a date that held special meaning for her, as it was her beloved mother’s birthday.
Born on February 3, 1927, in New York State, Mary was the eldest daughter of Mary Kathleen Junkin and Robert Alexander MacKay. She lovingly cared for her parents in their later years, reflecting her deep sense of loyalty and family devotion.
Mary led an extraordinary life. As an Executive Assistant for Global Affairs for over 40 years, she worked and lived all over the world. Along the way, she collected treasured keepsakes—jewelry, pottery, fine dining dishes, art, photographs, and cherished family heirlooms—all thoughtfully arranged and proudly displayed in her home.
She was a woman of many talents: a gifted visual artist who painted in watercolours, a skilled seamstress, and a gourmet cook. Mary was a true hostess at heart, known for the memorable dinner parties she held in her apartment at Rideau Terrace—a beloved gathering place for over 30 years. During her stay at the Rockcliffe, she enjoyed hosting family pizza parties and other frequent gatherings with family and friends.
Mary had a mischievous sense of humour. She was famous for wrapping gifts in cracker boxes (sometimes with crackers still inside!) and for “forgetting” her hearing aids. She had more nicknames than one could count and often signed cards with her iconic ant doodle.
Her connection with people across generations was one of her most cherished gifts. She was especially close to her dear friend Sandy and was the kind of person who made everyone feel they shared a special bond with her. As a natural storyteller and proud family historian, Mary was independent, kind and a brilliant role model—particularly to the young women in her life. Her curious, observant nature and good sense of humour stayed with her to the very end.
Mary took great pride in her appearance and surroundings. She had a keen visual eye and thoughtfully curated her living space with elegance. Each day, she selected a stylish outfit—complete with jewelry and a scarf—with care and intention.
Even as her physical health declined, Mary remained upbeat and realistic, keeping up her social life and continuing to enjoy the things she loved: fine art, a good glass of wine, gatherings surrounded by family and friends and writing her legendary annual Christmas letter.
Mary was predeceased by her siblings Janet (Roger) of Ottawa and Andrew (Alexa) of Halifax. She leaves behind her beloved sister Edith (Gordon); beloved nieces and nephews Margaret (Bob), Geoffrey (Carrie), Carolyn (Peter), Sheila (Rob), Max (Mark), Rachel (Vasilis), and Alec; as well as numerous great- and great-great-nieces and nephews, all of whom cherished her deeply.
Anyone who had the privilege of knowing Mary recognized how truly special she was. Her warmth, wit, and generosity of spirit were unforgettable. Her passing is a profound loss—she is already missed beyond measure.
Cremation has taken place. A funeral service will be held at 3 pm on May 4, 2025, at MacKay United Church, 39 Dufferin Road, Ottawa. A reception to will follow in the church hall. As per Mary’s wishes, there will be no visitation.
The service will be live-streamed at 3 pm EST on Sunday, May 4 here: https://vimeo.com/event/5103557
Donations in Mary’s memory may be made to MacKay United Church (mackayunited.ca).
Digital Guestbook
Sandy Glean
Christine Toffolo-wright
That was exactly how Mary was from the time I first met her in our building through her close friend of many years Shirley Whiteside who unfortunately also passed away a few years ago.They were great palls and I was fortunate enough to fine at their homes and hat the pleasure of their company at mine.Sandy was also a through companion to Mary and We will all miss her. I am fortunate to own some of her art pieces and think of her always!
Veronika BaKo
Mary was always welcoming and calm, and she made you feel comfortable. She was a lovely person.
Verinica Kent
I have had the pleasure of meeting Mary a few times and truly enjoyed her presence. She was a lovely lady and will be missed.
Margaret Benoit
With sincere condolences to Mary's family on the loss of a remarkable member. As an employee of the Dept. of External Affairs, I had the honour and privilege of having Mary as an assignment officer and, later, friend. She was a most admirable person, sociable, thoughtful, kind and considerate and gave generously of her time. I well recall her love of classical music, especially opera, and her massive collection of CDs. Mary will have left an indelible mark on all who knew her.
Mary Fay Coady
An incredible life. All these positive characteristics have been passed down! I see it in her niece, and my best friend, Alex Archibald.
Ona Archibald
Spending time with Mary was like attending a masterclass on how to live joyfully and authentically, with beauty, warmth, humour and kindness. Sending my deepest condolences to Mary's Family. Thank you for your tutelage, Mary.
Thérèse Lorrain
I would like to offer my sincere condolences to the family of Mary MacKay. She was a kind lady and she loved to go at the NAC for some concerts. She was in 1974 my Posting Officer and she offered me my first posting which was Paris. Rest in peace Mary.
Dolores Lilley
I regret receiving notice of the passing of Mary MacKay too late to attend the funeral mass and the reception following. I have known Mary for many years. A lovely lady. She will be missed.
Margaret GEORGE DENCH
Sharing a special moment when I first met Mary.
It was 6 months to the day I had joined External Affairs (Jan 1974) and Personnel was desperate to find someone - I was told they were getting to the bottom having had over 40 rejections - who would take a posting to Lusaka (Zambia). On receiving the call from my assignment officer, Mary MacKay, I quickly headed down to see her. She brightly offered an assignment to a place called Lusaka. Not wanting to appear too dumb by asking where in the world was Lusaka, I simply said "Oh" in as interested a manner as possible. It must have worked, because Mary quickly jumped up came around her desk and pointed it out on the map behind me with great fanfare! After which, there was a very lively discussion of all things Africa. I loved her! May she rest in peace.
Margaret.
p.s. A number of friends didn't get it and thought I was going to Osaka (Japan)!
What an absolutely beautiful tribute to Mary….it captures all those various qualities and interests she exhibited .
She was loved by so many people who entered her life.