Obituary of Vivian Campbell MacDonald

The death of Vivian (Matthews) MacDonald occurred August 26, 2024 at the Saint John Regional Hospital.  Born in Saint John, NB on July 20, 1931 (age 93), she was the daughter of Hillman Ceton Matthews and Lillian Campbell Matthews and sister of Robert C. Matthews.  Vivian was predeceased by her husband Allan L. MacDonald.  She is survived by her daughter Leslie MacDonald and two grandchildren, Gillian and James King

Vivian attended Saint John High School and after graduation worked in the lab of the Provincial Laboratory at the General Hospital.  She obtained further education as a Certified Pharmacy Clerk and worked for her brother (Bob Matthews) at McLean Matthews drugstore. and then later at Wasson’s Pharmacy.

A life member of the Girl Guides of Canada and member of the Trefoil Guild, she was active in the Fundy Division and led a Guide Company at St. Luke's Church for decades.  Many girls enjoyed learning lifelong skills in a safe, supportive, and fun environment, at St. Luke's and Camp Oswego, created by Vivian's dedication and caring to her troop.  In 2008, the Girl Guides of Canada bestowed the highest award in adult guiding “The Beaver” and honoured her with life membership for exceptional service to guiding.

Vivian was a lifelong Presbyterian and a member of Grace Presbyterian Church where she enjoyed being an active participant of the Women's Group, regularly making soup for Romero House while in the company of true friends.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row (506-634-7424) with visiting on Thursday, August 29, 2024 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM.  The Funeral Service will be held at Grace Presbyterian Church (101 Coburg Street) on Friday, August 30, 2024, at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Saint John Food Bank, Romero House (Soup Kitchen) Inc. or Grace Presbyterian Church.