SYDNEY: Sister Catherine MacPhee, a beloved figure and a testament to resilience and faith, passed away peacefully at the age of 109.
Known as the oldest person from Inverness County and Port Hood’s oldest centenarian, Sister Catherine lived a remarkable life that spanned more than a century, marked by unwavering dedication to her faith, community, and education, before passing away on Jan. 4.
Born in Colindale, just outside Port Hood, on March 21, 1915, Sister Catherine was the daughter of Mary Ann (MacIsaac) and Angus MacPhee. In 1933, at the age of 18, she left her Nova Scotia home to join the Sisters of the Congregation of Notre Dame (CND) in Montreal.
She was professed in 1935, beginning an extraordinary journey of religious service that lasted 85 years.
Sister Catherine’s vocation took her across Canada as a teacher in Montreal, Sydney, and Antigonish. She pursued her passion for education by earning her School Administration certificate from the University of Ottawa and later becoming qualified to teach the Laubach Reading Program.
Throughout her career, she was known for her dedication to her students and her community, a commitment that extended well into her retirement years.
Her life wasn’t only defined by her profession but also by her profound connections with people. A frequent visitor to the Chestico Museum and Archives, she delighted in exploring family histories and nurturing relationships.
Her kindness and sharp memory left lasting impressions on all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Sister Catherine’s later years were spent at MacGillivray Guest Home in Sydney, where she remained active and engaged. Despite losing her sight five years ago, she demonstrated remarkable resilience, emphasizing the importance of staying connected with others.
Her daily 20-minute walks, a habit she began at 75, and her dedication to writing letters reflected her commitment to staying physically and mentally active.
Her 109th birthday in March 2024 was a joyful celebration of a life well-lived. Surrounded by well-wishers, she received calls, cards, and a plaque from the Municipality of the County of Inverness, presented by Councillor Lynn Chisholm.
Sister Catherine’s warmth and wit shone during the occasion, as she reflected on her life’s blessings and encouraged others to embrace kindness and community.
Having lived through two world wars, two global pandemics, and countless societal changes, Sister Catherine embodied the resilience and grace of her generation. Her wisdom and example – particularly her belief in the power of staying active, fostering relationships, and being kind – will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.
Sister Catherine MacPhee’s passing marks the end of an era for Inverness County and the broader communities she touched. Her legacy as an educator, a woman of faith, and a compassionate soul will remain etched in the hearts of all who were privileged to know her.