Marie was the loving wife of Carol Burns (2011) for over 65 years, and devoted mother of 14 children; Rochelle Iino (Tomo), Bobby, Micheal, Karen Short (deceased), Leona Foster (Ted), David (deceased), Cathy Boyce (Ted), Shirley Norris (Rick), Margie Yamamoto (Dave), Brenda Gavloski (Jim), Theresa Davis (Bill), Pam Jacobi (Steve), Darcy, Tammy Quin (Jim).
Marie was a dear grandmother to 33 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren. She is predeceased by grandsons Zachary and Michael and granddaughter Amanda.
Marie was the daughter of Michael Neil and Margaret MacNeil and caring sister to 11 siblings. Marie and Carol were originally from Cape Breton Island before moving to Brantford in 1947 to raise their large and happy family. Marie grew up on a sheep farm and was passionate about wool. She loved to knit socks, mittens and baby clothes for her extensive family. She was a strong, intelligent woman of infinite wisdom; a compassionate and gentle soul who relied on her intense devotion to the Lord. She instinctively guided her children and many others through the rough waters of life. "This too shall pass" were words that she would often use while comforting others in their time of need.
Marie worked at the W. Ross MacDonald School for the Blind for over 20 years. She was a long standing member of St. Basil’s Catholic Women's League and was honoured to stand as president for several years. Marie enjoyed distributing communion and sharing the word of the Lord with the sick and elderly in the parish. She volunteered at the St. Vincent de Paul Society and Meals on Wheels, during her retirement years.
In lieu of flowers donations honouring Marie's memory would be appreciated at St. Vincent de Paul Society or your local food bank.
Due to Covid-19 a private service will take place. Family and friends will be asked to join a celebration of Marie's life once it is safe to gather in her name.
A faithful life well lived, an exemplary human.
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