Obituary of Mary Caldwell

Caldwell, Mary, a resident of Chatham. Early Monday morning, Mary passed away peacefully at Riverview Gardens, surrounded by love and family at the age of 90. Mary was truly an extraordinary woman who touched the lives of many with her kindness and selflessness. Born in Chatham on August 12, 1920 to the late Benjamin St. John (1922) and Edith Shamley(1961). Mary faced the challenges of her time with dignity and resilience. She was a devoted mother to her eight children, an always loving grandmother to her many grandchildren and great grandchildren and a treasured friend to many. Mary was a valued housekeeping employee of Public General Hospital in Chatham for 20 years, who always went out of her way to bring a comforting word, coffee or newspaper to patients on her break. Following retirement, Mary continued to volunteer at PGH and Chatham Outreach for Hunger. In 1993, Mary was awarded the ‘Senior Achievement Award’ in recognition of her community service. Dear friend of the late Lloyd Spurgeon. Beloved mother of Douglas Caldwell (Lois), Stoney Point; David Caldwell (Janet), Burlington; Mary Ann Heath (Bob), St. Thomas; Edward Caldwell (Linda), Chatham; Janice Ciphery (Doug), Leonard, Michigan; Karen Caldwell-Livingston, Chatham; Deborah McMath (Darrell), Southampton and Brenda Zimmer (Mike), Chatham. Grandmother of 14 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren and one great grandson Daniel Caldwell predeceased in 2010. Sister of Claude St. John; Edith Naylor; Joseph St. John and John St. John. Friends will be received at the Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair St., Chatham on Wednesday November 10, 2010 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. A Memorial Service will be conducted on Thursday at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Mark Perry officiating. Interment of Cremated Remains in Maple Leaf Cemetery, Chatham. Donations in memory of Mary to the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation or Outreach for Hunger would be appreciated. Although Mary’s passing leaves a hole in our hearts, her gentle and compassionate spirit will continue to comfort and inspire us all. Rest easy Mary… the turkey is in the oven and the pies are made. Your hard work is done and it’s time to relax. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com McKinlay Funeral Home 459 St. Clair Street Chatham, Ontario 519-351-2040