Peacefully at home surrounded by family on Thursday, February 29, 2024 at the age of 91.

Mary was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, cousin, aunt, teacher and friend. She will be missed by her husband, Ted, and her children Maureen (Al), Susan (Mitchell), Denyse (Bob), Carolyn (Glenn), Peter and Jennifer.

Her grandchildren and great grandchildren were a constant source of joy. Grandchildren: Michael, Christopher, Michael, Stephanie, Alexandra, Ashley, Mark, Andrea, Madeleine, Ed, Ben, Jamie, Sean, Leah and Adam. Great grandchildren: Dylan, Addison, Tyson, Paityn, Lucas, Brennley, Myles, Jack and Emily.

Mary will also be missed by her brother Bill (Jean), and she was predeceased by her sister, Anne.

Born in Peterborough in 1932, Mary spent most of her life in Toronto. She met Ted when she was in high school and they spent more than 75 years together raising their large family in St. Bruno and Scarborough.

A teacher through and through and a lifelong learner herself, Mary completed two Masters degrees (Divinity & Theology). She had a special interest in feminist theology and ecofeminism, and although at times her views were at odds with Catholic teaching, she was dedicated to changing her beloved Catholic church from within. Her progressive approach to adult education garnered an enthusiastic following during a long career at St. Gabriel’s Passionist Parish.

A lifelong lover of music and an accomplished pianist, Mary achieved her Associate Diploma from the Royal Conservatory of Toronto. She enjoyed playing the organ at church and was frequently asked to perform at weddings and funerals. Mary also spoke fondly of leading the church choir and dreamed of conducting an orchestra.

Mary was the embodiment of hospitality. She would drop everything when someone arrived at the house and there was always room for more at the table. On more than one occasion, Mary opened her home to people in need of a place to stay, including some for extended periods.

Grand-Barachois, New Brunswick held a very special place in Mary’s heart. She enjoyed spending summers at the cottage - Plage Hirondelle - surrounded by friends and family.

A special thank you to Maggie, Seeta and Melanie for their compassionate care.

Mary had a long, full and happy life.

A service will be held at St. Gabriel’s Parish (670 Sheppard Ave E, North York, ON, M2K 1B7) at 11 am on March 8, 2024 with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada or Indspire.