In Loving Memory of Leona Stella Hallihan (née MacDonald)
September 23, 1935 – December 22, 2025

 

It is with profound love and sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Leona Stella Hallihan on December 22, 2025, surrounded by her loving family at Percy’s Place Hospice in Miramichi.

 

Born in Bay du Vin, New Brunswick, on September 23, 1935, Leona was the youngest daughter of Ronald and Beatrice (Buckley) MacDonald. She is survived by her three daughters: Judy Losier (Dr. Gerard) of Miramichi, Colleen Hallihan Power of Miramichi, and Jennifer Walker (Matthew) of Barcelona, Spain; and her son, Bruce Hallihan (Ronda) of Fredericton. Leona also leaves behind seven grandchildren: Dr. Evan Losier, Jantzen Losier, Aiden Hallihan, Lauren Hallihan, Logan Power, Kale Power, and Trent Power; and a great-grandchild, Brooks Ivan MacDonald; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She was predeceased by her parents; her two sisters, Laura Hallihan and Mary Trites; and the love of her life, Ivan, with whom she shared 64 wonderful years.

 

Leona’s life was defined by kindness, integrity, and a steadfast faith that guided everything she did as a devoted member of St. Michael’s Basilica. She dedicated 36 years to teaching, shaping countless young minds with patience, compassion, and care. Her classroom was more than a place of learning; it was a space of encouragement and belonging, where students felt seen, nurtured, and inspired to reach their fullest potential.

 

Leona’s gentle wit, generous spirit, and love of simple joys—stories shared over tea and time spent with loved ones—reflected the deep sense of community she was raised with.

 

She will be forever missed by her family, friends, former students, and all those who were fortunate enough to know her. Though she has left this world, her influence lives on in the lives she touched and the love she gave so freely.

 

Visitation was held at Adams Funeral Home, 140 King St., Miramichi, New Brunswick, on, December 29, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Michael’s Basilica, located at 10 Howard St., Miramichi, on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with the Reverend Father John Fraser as Celebrant. Music for the service was provided by St. Michael's Basilica Choir, Soloists, Dawn MacDonald Patterson and Alicia McGraw, and Organist, David Bunnell.  The songs included entrance hymn "Here I Am Lord", Offertory hymn "Be Not Afraid", Communion Hymn "Amazing Grace", Incensing Hymn "Gentle Woman", and Recessional Hymn "Songs of the Angels".  The First Reading was by Jennifer Walker.  The Second Reading was by Evan Losier.  Prayers of the Faithful were proclaimed by Deanna Baldwin.  The Active Pallbearers were Aiden Hallihan, Lauren Hallihan, Evan Losier, Jantzen Losier, Kale Power, Logan Power, and Trent Power.  The Honorary Pallbearers were Laurie and Deanna Baldwin, Gerry and Patricia Carroll, Ned Carroll, Lorraine Glazier, Ron and Pam Hallihan, Robert Hallihan, Ross Jardine, Reg Jardine, Carole Kane, Dr. Gerard Losier, Donnie MacDonald, Bill MacIntosh, Neil and Suzanne McEachern, Bernadette Walsh, and Lillian Williston.  A Guard of Honour was formed by the Miramichi Area Retired Teachers Association.  Interment will be in St. Michael’s Catholic Cemetery later in the spring.

 

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the caregivers who lovingly cared for Leona at home—Stephanie Young, Geraldine Larsen, along with Yvonne, Karen, Donna, and Jo-Ann, the awesome Extra Mural staff - and to the exceptional staff at Percy’s Place Hospice. Your compassion and presence brought comfort, dignity, and peace during this time, and we are deeply grateful.

 

In memory of Leona, donations may be made to Percy’s Place (www.percysplace.ca) or to any charity of the donor’s choice.

 

Arrangements were entrusted to Adams Funeral Home Ltd., 140 King St., Miramichi, NB; telephone (506) 773-3492. Messages of condolences may also be shared online at www.adamsfh.ca.

“Where Dedicated People Care”

Est. 1956