Columbus, OH — Mary Bernadette “Bernie’ MacArthur, 94, died May 31, 2023.

She was Oct. 3, 1928, in Kinkora, PEI, growing up as the eldest girl in a family of 12.

Mary Bernadette “Bernie’ MacArthur, 94, died May 31, 2023. Provided photo.

She married Edwin Heckbert and had four boys. When Edwin died suddenly, she was widowed at only 26, and began to study photography in order to take over the business to provide for her family.

She married Ron MacArthur in 1955, and they soon added to their family with three girls. Together they grew Heckbert Studio into a prominent business, renowned for national award-winning photography.

Active in the community, Mrs. MacArthur served as president of several organizations including the Kinettes and the Summerside Figure Skating Club.

In addition, she and Ron were involved in harness racing, eventually developing a broodmare farm in Clinton. While being a fun place for family and friends, Bermac Farm made a significant contribution to improving the breeding stock in the Maritimes.

In 1975, Bernie and Ron turned the photography business over to their sons and began racing horses full time. They raced throughout Canada and the United States, stabling at Vernon Downs, Freestate Raceway, Rosecroft Raceway, and Pompano Park.

Mrs. MacArthur was an amazing mother, grandmother, wife, and friend. In 1993, she was honored by being inducted into the Atlantic Hall of Fame for Women Entrepreneurs for her accomplishments in photography and business.

Family and faith always sustained her, allowing her to overcome all challenges. Strong and determined, she lived life to the fullest, inspiring all who knew her. When interviewed once about what home meant to her, she responded, “Home is not the house — home is family — it’s your loved ones.”