Saint Francis Xavier University is mourning the passing of a beloved member of their community.
Father Stan, an alumnus from the class of 1954, and a longtime ambassador for St. FX died, Sunday at the age of 92.
In a statement, President and Vice Chancellor of St. FX, Dr. Andy Hakin said Fr. Stan inspired the Xaverian community to become a more “hospitable, supportive and caring place.”
Fr. Stan was a native of Glace Bay who became an ordained priest for the Diocese of Antigonish, served as pastor of parishes until he retired in 2008, then became a full-time resident of Mockler Hall.
Soon after, Hakin said, Fr. Stan became a staple in Morrison Hall, at sporting events and the way he interacted with the campus community, was “inspiring”.
“He always had a smile, a fist bump, and a cheery word for everyone he met. Perhaps, most notably, he turned an already popular St. FX chant into something that transcended generations,” added Hakin.
“Go X Go”
Hakin said, Fr. Stan made quite an impression on students, especially in Morrison Hall, “creating lasting memories for all he encountered.”
In an interview from 2022, Fr. Stan mentioned that at St. FX everyone cares.
“The professors, those who cleaned the rooms, the Sisters of St. Martha, just everyone I met at Antigonish. You could feel it. But I think that’s the best thing about community. To create change, you don’t have to do it all on your own,” said Fr. Stan.
Hakin said, “Fr. Stanley MacDonald was, for seventeen wonderful years, an unofficial guidance counsellor, book club guide, spiritual advisor, meal companion, and the ultimate St. FX Super Fan. He represented the very best of being Xaverian. May his noble spirit rest in peace.”
Funeral details will be shared with the community when available.
