WOODWARD, Mary “May” of Comox, passed away suddenly on Monday, August 23rd, 2010, aged 88.
Predeceased by her parents Jane and Hendry McKernan and brothers-in-law Harry Conway and Neil Hailey. She is survived and will be lovingly missed by her spouse Henry “Harry” Woodward; son John (Molly) Woodward; daughters Jane Fix, Eileen (Blair) Arbuthnot and Karen (John) Bradica; grandchildren Adam and Ryan Fix, Joshua Woodward, Victoria Courchaine, Benjamin Woodward, Callyn Bradica, Devon Arbuthnot, and Spencer and Matthew Bradica; great grandchildren Zaida and Kinley Woodward; her brother John (Margaret) McKernan; sisters Jane Conway and Margaret Hailey; nephew John McKernan; niece Jane Barsauckas and other surviving relatives in Scotland.
May served with the Royal Airforce Women’s Auxiliary during World War II as a motor mechanic. Following the war, she was employed with British Railway as a payroll and booking clerk. In her leisure, she enjoyed reading, crosswords, flower arranging, needlepoint, knitting, gardening and traveling, especially to her favourite destination, Malta. For many years she was an active member of the Catholic Women’s League.
May was strong willed, forthright and proud of her Scottish/Irish heritage. Forever close to her heart were her sisters, brother and extended family in her beloved Scotland. She was quick witted and held strong beliefs. She had a sharp edge like an aloe vera cactus - prickly on the outside, but soft and soothing on the inside.
May loved each of her children and grandchildren unconditionally and told them all how special they were. She was the pepper to Harry’s salt and added the spice, while he made everything more palatable. They were the perfect couple for over 65 years.
“Night Night Mom God Bless”
In accordance with May’s wishes, prayers will be offered with viewing on Sunday, August 29th at 7:00pm from Comox Valley Funeral Home, Cremation and Reception Centre, 1101 Ryan Road. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Marek Paczka on Monday, August 30th at 11 am from Christ the King Roman Catholic Church, with burial to follow at Courtenay Civic Cemetery. Should friends wish, donations in May’s memory to a charity of your choice would be appreciated.