MacLean (Devoe), Madonna - Today we announce the passing of our beloved "Nan," Madonna MacLean, on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.
Following a lengthy battle with Alzheimer's disease, Nan passed peacefully, just short of her 93rd birthday, surrounded by her loved ones and her amazing extended family: the incredible staff at The Birches Nursing Home, who lovingly cared for her during her lengthy stay in Musquodoboit Harbour.
Madonna was born in Alder Point, Cape Breton, to the late Willard and Annie Devoe.
Growing up in Cape Breton, Madonna later relocated to mainland Nova Scotia with the love of her life, Grampy, Carleton MacLean. Together they raised a remarkable family of nine sons and four daughters, who became her everything, her world, and her life.
While raising her family in the community of Gaetz Brook, Halifax County, Madonna not only nurtured her own children but also opened her heart and home to the community. With three, four, or even five neighbourhood children joining her 13 children at any given time, there was never a shortage of love in the home she built with Grampy. The warmth and kindness they shared extended throughout the community.
There was not a bingo hall along the Eastern Shore that she did not visit. Her fun and relaxation came from spending time with her bingo buddies, Barb and Carol, and enthusiastically calling out "Bingo!" A road trip to the United States was always at the top of her wish list. The Riverside Inn in Bangor became her home away from home and welcomed her several times a year. Whether it was a bingo bus tour or a shopping trip with family and friends, she loved travelling to Bangor, spending a few days shopping, mostly for groceries and treats that she proudly brought home to her family. She always made sure everyone received their favourite item.
Providing for her children and husband became her mission in life. She was always there for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and, of course, for her Grampy, the love of her life.
Making her famous date squares, shortbread cookies, and pies brought her great joy and became a treasured tradition for family gatherings, special occasions, and Christmas celebrations. Christmas Eve was always spent with "Nan and Gramps" for the annual pre-Christmas turkey dinner. There was never a shortage of good food at the MacLean home; Mom made sure of that.
Madonna is survived by her children, Lorna, Buddy (Bonnie), David (Jennifer), Curtis (Diane), Norine, Lindy (Terry), Brian, Robin (Lavare), Dennis, and Roy; as well as her many incredible grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life.
She was predeceased by her husband, George Carleton MacLean; her son, Christopher (Linda); her daughter, Wanda (Ronnie); her daughter-in-law, Donna (David); her son, Allen; and her brother, Willard (Ruth).
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at The Birches Nursing Home for their exceptional care, compassion, and support during Nan's extended stay. We would also like to thank our family and friends for their support throughout Mom's 10-year battle with Alzheimer's disease.
Cremation has taken place under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.
A gathering for family and friends to honour our beloved Nan will be held on Wednesday, September 2, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. in First United Church Hall, Musquodoboit Harbour. A private family burial will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Birches Health Care Charitable Foundation.
"I am strong. I am proud. I am a Mom."
"Mom, you are the most beautiful memory that we will keep locked inside our hearts forever."
"A mother's love lights up the world. Though your caring light is gone, it shines forever in our hearts."
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