Obituary of Mary Louise Holland

The family of Mary Louise (McSheffrey) Holland sadly announce her passing on, July 17, 2026 at Maple Ridge Nursing Home in Oromocto.  Mary was born on August 27, 1935.  She was the wife of the late Arnold Holland and the daughter of the late William and Mahalia (Noble) McSheffrey.

In addition to her husband and parents, Mary was predeceased by her brothers, Alex and John; her sister, Phyllis Blackier; and her nieces,  Florine Johnston and Linda Robinson. Mary was the last surviving member of her immediate family.

Mary is survived by nieces, Evelyn Simpson, Veronica Titus; nephews, Peter Blackier, John Blackier, William McSheffrey and David McSheffrey; along with several great nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her special chosen family, Erik, Gudrun and Richard Desjardin of Ottawa. Mary graduated from Fredericton High School and Victoria Public Hospital School of Nursing RN (1956) and received a Bachelor and Masters Degree in nursing from McGill University (1975). Her professional career spanned some 40 years within the health care system; in the area of maternal child health, in teaching, administration and as a consultant within the Department of Health. As the first Director of Patient Care within the Extra-Mural Hospital Program, Mary played a key role in its development.

Mary and Arnold “Nol” were married in 1981 and shared 17 treasured years together. Both had a deep commitment to their faith and family and were actively involved in the St. Vincent de Paul Parish Church community. They both had a love of gardening and a passion for music and dance, as well as travel. They shared many memorable times with families and friends.  On the passing of her husband, Nol, Mary moved to Fredericton and became a member of St. Dunstan's Parish Church lay community.

She was a long-standing member of the Catholic Women's League.  Her commitment to her faith was shared through her many acts of kindness and in providing pastoral care and support to those in need. She was President and a long-standing member of the Oromocto Public Hospital Foundation and a supporter of several other community organizations, including Hospice Fredericton. In later years, Mary could often be found playing bridge or just visiting with special friends.  Friendships were always an important part of her life.  She leaves you with her love and blessings.

Mary’s family wishes to extend a special thanks to the nursing staff of Maple Ridge Nursing Home for their care and kindness over the past few months.

Visitation will be held at Oromocto Funeral Home on Thursday, July 23, 2026 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at the St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Oromocto, NB on Friday, July 24, 2026, at 11 am, with Fr. Bill Brennan officiating. Interment will take place in the St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Cemetery at a later date. For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to Hospice Fredericton, or to a charity of the donor’s choice.