McKINNON, Mary Elizabeth (“Betty”) (nee James)
May 8, 1922 – Oct. 23, 2015
A
woman of deep faith, an inspiring teacher, a loving wife, a parent of boundless
affection, and a loyal friend to many, Mary (also known as Betty) went to meet the
Lord in the early hours of Oct. 23 after her great heart finally gave out at
Eagle Ridge Hospital in Port Moody. She was 93.
Born
in McMurdo, B.C., Mary was predeceased by her parents, Marguerite Josephine
Chaloner and David Atlee James, by siblings Atlee and William, son-in-law
Richard Bylin, daughter Susan Pummell, and her husband, J. Douglas McKinnon, to
whom she was married for 67 years. She is survived by her older sister Neetta Moriarty
and sister-in-law Ann James.
Her
wisdom and compassion, sense of humour and joy, and religious devotion will long
be remembered and treasured by her seven surviving children and their spouses—Katherine
Bylin, William, Timothy (Ruth), Christopher (Valerie), Mary O’Neill (Terry),
David (Doreen) and Elizabeth Keobke (Brian)—and by her 26 grandchildren and 26
great grandchildren. The life she gave to so many was her greatest gift.
Doug
and Betty started their life together in Surrey, and also lived in Mission, Prince
George, Vancouver, Burnaby, Lake Errock and Port Moody. She taught at the
elementary-school level, primarily in Vancouver, and was celebrated for her exceptional
work with special-needs students. After retirement, she and Doug spent many memorable
winters travelling through the southern U.S. in their RV.
The
family is indebted to the dedicated emergency-service personnel and medical
professionals who supported Mary in her final years.
Prayers
will take place at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 28 at St. Clare of Assisi Church, 1320
Johnson St., Coquitlam; a funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, Oct.
29 at the same church. A reception in
the church hall will follow.
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