We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Duncan Alexander “Sandy” MacGregor, 82, on December 10, 2025, at the QEII Infirmary in Halifax. Born in New Glasgow, he was the son of the late Clarence and Lillian (Ward) MacGregor.

Sandy grew up on the family farm in Brookville, attending a one-room school before moving on to East Pictou Rural High, where he met the love of his life, Emily. After high school, he studied at the Nova Scotia Land Survey Institute, forming lifelong friendships and beginning his journey in forestry. He later graduated from the University of New Brunswick in 1968 with a Bachelor of Science in Forestry. Sandy joined Scott Paper after graduation and dedicated his career to the forestry industry, retiring in 2001 as Manager of Woodlands. His passion for the forest never wavered, even in retirement.

A devoted member of St. John’s Presbyterian Church, McLennan’s Mountain, Sandy served in many roles, including Clerk of Session. In his younger years, he volunteered with Scouts Canada and the Canadian Institute of Forestry. In retirement, he became deeply involved with the local St. Andrew’s Society, serving as President and Treasurer. To friends and neighbours, he was affectionately known as the “Mayor of Brookville.”

Sandy loved genealogy, especially his Scottish heritage, and enjoyed birdwatching, gardening, and exploring back roads—always avoiding highways when possible. He cherished time with family and friends, sharing wisdom and stories along the way. Sandy was his grandchildren’s biggest fan, attending countless sporting and musical events to cheer them on.

He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Emily (Feit); daughters Lillie (Dana) Cruikshank, Sheri (Steve) Osgood, and Ann-Louise MacGregor (Jason Brushett); son Jamie (Amber) MacGregor; grandchildren Karli (Andrew) Hamilton, Courtney Cruikshank, Cameron and Dale Osgood, Grace and Renee Brushett, and Mya and Rowan MacGregor; great-grandson Thomas Hamilton; brothers Jim MacGregor and Glenn (Holly) MacGregor; sister Janet (Barry) MacKenzie; brother-in-law Grant Johnston and many nieces and nephews whose lives he touched with guidance and support. 

He was predeceased by his parents, his sister Sheila Johnston, his granddaughter Mallory Cruikshank and sister-in-law Yvonne MacGregor.

Visitation will be held Friday, December 19, from 2–4 p.m. and 7–9 p.m. at H.W. Angus Funeral Home, New Glasgow. The funeral service will take place Saturday, December 20, at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel, with Rev. Charles McPherson officiating. A reception will follow, and family burial will be in Castle Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. John’s Presbyterian Church, McLennan’s Mountain, a charity of your choice, or by performing a random act of kindness in Sandy’s memory.