Janet Ruth Cawley

With great sadness we announce the passing of the Reverend, Doctor Janet Ruth Cawley. Janet is predeceased by her loving partner Sallie McFague and survived by her cherished sisters Grace and Susan, nieces and nephews Mark, Geoffrey, Douglas, Gordon, Kathryn and Hugh.

Janet lived a life of challenge, accomplishment and service. A mark of her lifelong commitment to learning, she completed an honours degree in philosophy from Waterloo Lutheran University, a doctorate in theology from Emmanuel College Toronto, and a professorship at the Vancouver School of Theology.

Janet frequently served in interim ministry, assisting churches through difficult transitions. She contributed intellectually and practically to the United Church of Canada’s efforts to become more inclusive.

In her later years Janet struggled with several health issues including myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), though her ongoing contribution to numerous causes belied the energy-sapping effects of the illness.

An avid player of word puzzles and scrabble, she would often engage in those past times with her friends. Janet had a lifelong love of nature and was most at peace in the out of doors, whether walking in the forest or looking out across the ocean from a beach.

Wherever she was, she found her community – community that will miss her sorely now that she has passed. A memorial service will be held for Janet at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday July 31st at Pacific Spirit United Church, 2195 W 45th Avenue, Vancouver BC.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.vancouvercrematorium.com for the Cawley family.