Obituary of Agnes Bernadette McBride

Agnes Bernadette Mary McBride

January 6th , 1936 – September 25th , 2025

Agnes passed away peacefully at home in Halifax, Nova Scotia, surrounded by family, with an affectionate sendoff full of song and prayer from loved ones near and far. She was predeceased by her son, Patrick, her siblings Kathleen, Mary-Rose, Brigid Paddy-Jo and Andy and her ex-husband John Paul (Jack) Cadieux. She is survived by her pride and joy, her children, Paula, Michelle, Roisin, Jaqui (Marc), Eileen (Martin) and John (Victoria). She leaves precious memories for her adoring grandchildren, Giuliana (Justyn), Felix (Sabrina), Noemi (Marco), Dalina (Alessandro), Jordan, Bernadette,Olivier (Nadine), Sophie, and Henry (Vanessa), and her great grandson Leonardo, as well as for numerous nieces, nephews and treasured friends.

Agnes often referred to herself as a country girl from Moydamlaght, one of six McBrides born to Patrick and Annie in the foothills of the Sperrin mountains in County Derry, Northern, Ireland. An adventurous spirit, she married and settled in Canada, from where she continued to travel the world visiting family and friends.

Her love of literature and knowledge, coupled with her exuberance and kind- heartedness, meant that when in Agnes’ company you might be treated to a Shakespearean sonnet, engaged in impassioned socio-political discussion, or blessed with her wise counsel. Through a mix of fierce independence, resourcefulness, and determination, she could do virtually anything, from serving a gourmet meal to re-wiring a lamp, sewing a gown or putting in a new window.

Agnes will also be remembered for her joie de vivre, that came through in her resounding laughter, and her authentic and welcoming nature. Everyone knew that her door was always open, with an extra seat at the table, whether at home or at her “castle” in the Gatineau woods. We are grateful for the unconditional love, the many wonderful stories, and life lessons which will live on in all of us.

May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face
and the rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Many thanks to all who provided great comfort to Mum and to our family in recent days and weeks.

In lieu of flowers, Agnes would have preferred acts of kindness or gifts of charity.

Roman Catholic Funeral Mass at St Patrick Basilica, 281 Nepean Street, Ottawa,Saturday October 18 th 2025, at 11am, with a reception to follow. 

Livestream/video of the Funeral Mass:https://youtube.com/live/yjQ5ra3JZxM?feature=share

A celebration will also be held in Norther Ireland, on the Winter Solstice when the days start getting longer and the sap starts rising in the trees.