Thora Margaret Raycroft

It is with very heavy hearts that Margaret’s family announce the recent passing, in her 100th year, of their cherished mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great-great grandmother on August 27, 2024.

Margaret was predeceased by her husband Garnet and children Robert, Gerry and Gaye Wickware (Jim Wickware, deceased). She was the inspirational mother to daughters Betty Watson (Art Watson, deceased), Lori Raycroft (Keith Shewbridge), Julie Raycroft (Charles Leveque) and Tammy Biggs (Don Biggs).

Adored by her grandchildren Mark Raycroft (Pili Palm-Leis), Jason Wickware (Amy Wickware), Kris Pearson (Chris Pearson), Jessica Shewbridge (Peter Cerullo), Nicole Leveque, Michelle Leveque, and Daniel Biggs (Juanita Ossa Velez). Lovingly remembered by great grandchildren Martha Palm-Leis (Mauricio Mesa), Andrew Raycroft, Mason Richardson, Emery Hopkinson, and great-great grandson, Kai Mesa. Also much loved by daughter-in-law Sheryl Raycroft (Andy McAdam). She was pre-deceased by grandson, Darren Raycroft.

Margaret is also fondly remembered by numerous nieces and nephews. She was a true friend to many throughout her life.

Thora Margaret Thompson was born in Chesterville, Ontario on March 13, 1925 to Joseph and Cora (nee Durant) Thompson. She was the third born of six children. Predeceased by siblings Walter (late Lois), Dalton (late Pat), Lorna (late Grant Montgomery), Helen (late Harold Owens) and Gary (Monique).

She met Garnet (Garn) Raycroft of Arnprior, and they were married on January 31, 1945, for 51 years, until his death in January 1996. She lived her adult life in Winchester, Kemptville, Smiths Falls, Brockville and finally retired to Perth.

Margaret lived a very long and full life. Ever eager for a game (or many) of Euchre or Bridge, Margaret played with fervor. She had a very keen intellect and wicked sense of humour. There was always a song in her heart and a tune humming on her lips. She was an ardent reader, seamstress, knitter, crafter and baker. Above all, she was passionately devoted to her family. Christmas was an especially favourite time of year for her, and she ensured that each one was special and memorable. Surprisingly, after her children earmarked their favourite stuffed animal or toy from the Sears Christmas Catalogue each year, they were sure to find it from Santa under the tree on Christmas morning.

Margaret’s family would like to thank the management and staff at the Windsor Park Retirement Home in Ottawa for the exceptional care and expertise for the past 2.5 years. Also, a special thank you to Dr. Ruth Farey for her tremendous support and compassion provided to Margaret in her final days.

As per her wishes, Margaret will be cremated. Arrangements are entrusted to McEvoy-Shields Funeral Home in Ottawa. A private family internment will take place in the spring of 2025 at the Albert Street Cemetery in Arnprior.

As may be desired, the family would be honoured with donations in Margaret’s memory, directed to United Way East Ontario ([email protected]) or a charity of your choice.