Gwen Channon MacLean September 23rd, 1951 - April 10th, 2026

With deep love and sorrow, the family announces the passing of Gwen Channon MacLean: patient educator, community leader and dear friend.

Gwen was born in Arnprior, Ontario to Owen and Marian Channon. Education had always called to her and she attended Acadia University before moving on to teacher’s college. As her career continued, she transitioned into being an administrator, eventually ending up as the principal of Salt Springs School. A love of reading had always been a part of Gwen’s life and she channelled that into her work, specializing in reading resource instruction. She believed that everyone should have equal opportunities for learning and did whatever she could to make that possible.

Gwen married her sweetie, Lloyd, in 1989 and a couple of years later their daughter Kate arrived on the scene. Over the better part of 40 years, Gwen and Lloyd built a beautiful relationship together. They enjoyed traveling and had adventures all over the world - some highlights include visiting Greece, Australia, New Zealand, Scandinavia and Iceland. Although they’d have a fabulous time abroad, they were always extremely happy to return to their beloved home out on Silly Acres Lane.

Music was another source of great joy for Gwen, who was active as both a performer and a promoter. From her television show “Forever Young” on Cable 10 to playing bass with the Pictou County Community Orchestra, to singing alto in countless choirs throughout the years, right up to the most recent band with her ‘girls’ (Birds of a Feather) - Gwen always had something tuneful on the go! She loved to garden, and had volunteered as a gardening teacher with the John Howard society. She had also been involved in the Nova and Coastline theatre companies, was a voracious reader and a truly excellent cook.

Gwen found her spiritual home with the community of Green Hill-Alma United Church. She was a vital member of the leadership team there (although she’d never say so herself!) and was deeply involved with planning of services and community events. She also hosted the wonderful Monday Music concert series which allowed many artists, both local and visiting, to perform in a welcoming and acoustically rich environment.

She is survived by her husband, Lloyd MacLean and daughter Kate (Alex Moffett); sisters Ann Channon, Susan Osborne, Ellen Channon and Merry Channon; sisters-in-law Barbara MacLean (John McLean) and Elizabeth MacLean (Jim Cruikshank); nieces Annie Channon (Michael Korona), Jennifer Osborne (Jon Hardy-Wells), Sarah McLean (Donny Hartt and their children Grace and Nolan), and Emily McLean (Ryan Leach and their children Mary and Emmett); as well as Terri & Aaron Conklin and Glen, Logan & Felix Wadden.

Gwen was predeceased by her parents, Owen & Marian Channon and her mother and father-in-law Mary & David MacLean as well as her brilliant and cherished niece (Mary) Rachael McLean.

During her courageous last months Gwen received thoughtful and professional care from the incredible team of nurses and doctors at the Aberdeen hospital palliative care unit. The family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to all who were part of Gwen’s care team.

Gwen leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and selflessness. She was a passionate educator who never shied away from offering a helping hand to anyone who needed it. She will be deeply missed but as she was so fond of saying, “Love never ends”.

Visitation will be held on Saturday April 18th from 1-4pm at H.W. Angus Funeral Home, New Glasgow. The funeral service will be at 2pm on Sunday, April 19th at Green Hill-Alma United Church, Alma, with overflow and refreshments to follow next door at the Alma Fire Hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gwen’s memory can be made to MSF (Medicins Sans Frontiers) or the Palliative Care Society of the Aberdeen Hospital.