Obituary of T. Harris MacKenzie

MacKENZIE, T. Harris Pictou It is with heavy hearts we announce the sudden passing of Thomas ‘Harris’ MacKenzie the afternoon of October 23, 2024. Beloved Husband, Father, and grandfather. Survived by the love of this life wife, Gayle (Ross); his three children, Sheri, Dawn and Ross, and 7 grandchildren. Predeceased by his mother and father, Alda (Seaman) and Thomas MacKenzie; brothers, Millard and Greg. Born and raised in Pictou, Harris met his high school sweetheart Gayle at the age of 17 and “knew it was always her”. Together they shared 57 years of Joy and adventures with his family by his side and making numerous friends along the way. Notably his best friend Alan Macdonald, his chosen brother. Together they raised their three children, Sheri (James), Dawn, and Ross (Johnna). He loved them each uniquely and words cannot express the loss they will feel. He delighted in the birth of his seven grandchildren, Mackenzie (Dylan), Samuel, Isabelle, Abigail, Luca, Dominic, and Nicholas. He loved them all without measure from the moment they were born. Many happy days were spent following each of their passions. He worked tirelessly for the Royal Bank for over 30 years. Many moves across Atlantic Canada were made with his family in tow. Wherever they landed, the family always made it home for summers in Pictou County. Harris loved to cook for others known for Christmas Dinners at the branch for his staff, Roast Beef Dinners at Pictou United Church, Rotary Lobster burgers, and amazing meals wherever he was in the kitchen. Summers were spent at MacKean’s Cottages, Caribou. Winters in Sugarloaf, and in his retirement, he enjoyed 15 years by the beach at Indian Rocks, Florida. Most recently his summers were spent at Old Orchard Campground. He made dear friends wherever he went whom he kept for a lifetime. To Harris giving back was part of being. Volunteering was an integral part of his life’s work. He was a proud Mason, member of his First Lodge, New Caledonia, Pictou. Other organizations membership included Pictou United Church, Pictou Academy foundation and Pictou County Minor Hockey Association to name a few. Harris is well known as one of the founding builders of ‘A’ level hockey in Pictou County. And was the first President of the PCMHA and treasurer for many years. Many happy days were spent rink side with Gayle watching a good game. “What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes part of us.” A celebration of life worship will be held at 11 am on Friday, November 1st at Pictou United Church, 47 James Street Pictou with Mary-Beth Moriarty Officiating. Reception to follow in the church hall. Family flowers only by request. Donations in his memory may be made to: Pictou United Church, Pictou West food bank or charity of your choice.