Obituary of Mary Ann Alexander

Died at University Hospital, London, Sunday, March 29. She was born in Chatham, Ontario Oct. 17, 1932, daughter of Philip and Velma Alexander. She is survived by nephews Jay (Margaret), Paul (Janice) and niece Lee Ann, plus several grandnieces and nephews. Mary Ann enjoyed a long career in education, as a primary teacher, then as consultant of Religious Education in Windsor, and finally as Coordinator of Religion and Family Life for the London and Middlesex RCSS Board. She was principal of summer courses for many years for the Ontario English Catholic Teachers Association. Mary Ann held a B.A. and a M.A. from the University of Windsor. Mary Ann valued her service as a board member of the Seniors Apartments of Komoka, and she was a volunteer at St. Joseph’s Hospital for more than twenty-five years following her retirement. An avid traveller, Mary Ann visited India, Russia, China, Italy, France, and most other European countries, England, Ireland and Scotland. Of late, she enjoyed several river cruises and loved sharing travel stories with friends. Of all her destinations, most loved was the Holy Land, to which she journeyed more than fifty times, assisting pilgrims with worship at holy sites. She counted many pilgrims among her friends, and valued friendships with many Israelis. Her last trip to the Holy Land was in October. Mary Ann enjoyed entertaining, welcoming people into her home to share food and wine. She had a passion for the welfare of animals, and faithfully cared for the wildlife surrounding her country property. The deer, wild turkeys and geese flocked to the property for Mary Ann’s care. She rescued dozens of cats over the years, loved the dogs, and will be missed by Little One, Flambeau, Magic and Uni. Mary Ann was a woman of deep faith, dedicated to family, friends and church. She was a member of Holy Family Church after the closure of Sacred Heart Church, Delaware, and a member of the Catholic Women’s League. She was a supporter of many charities, including her sponsorship of several foster children. She will be missed by many, especially by her dearest and closest friend Joan Bolt, with whom she shared a home for more than fifty years. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. In memory of Mary Ann, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, the SPCA or to the Diocesan Missions.