O’Connor, Mary Jane (Lamey) – Truro

With immense sadness, we announce the passing of our mother and grandma, a woman of incomparable will, wisdom, and wit. Life without her is hard to fathom, but as she would say, “Into the mystery we all must walk.”

Mum passed away on Sunday, April 18th, 2021, six months after the death of her beloved husband, Don. Surrounded by family, Mum spent her final hours hearing her daughters share memories and thanking her for the beautiful example she set. We were blessed to have had such a remarkable mother and to have heard, “I love you” at every opportunity.

Born in Westville, Nova Scotia, on October 26, 1924, Mum was the daughter of the late Alexander and Catherine (Beaton) Lamey. As the second of thirteen children, household responsibilities were given, and accepted, early in life. She worked part-time jobs to contribute to the family income while remaining focused on her education. After high school, Mum earned a secretarial certificate from Mount Saint Bernard College and later enrolled at Xavier Junior College to study economics. She spent her career with the Canadian National Railway where she met her husband of 62 years. In a house built by Dad, they began their marriage in Sydney Mines before moving to Truro in 1968.

With grace and courage, Mum always pushed herself and those around her to never give up. This was especially true in the last several years. In and out of hospital, Mum rebounded so many times we began calling her Superwoman. A member of her palliative care team once said, “Your mother doesn’t do ‘typical.’ She beats to her own drum.” With a deep faith in God and in the power of prayer, Mum believed, and proved, that nothing is impossible if “you do your part.”

Mum worked full time, ran a corner store with Dad, raised two children, and was active in her church and community. She was especially proud of her involvement with the Catholic Women’s League, the CND Associates and in bringing Centering Prayer and PRH to Truro.

Mum and Dad were always organizing fun events and welcoming family and friends because “life is to be celebrated.” Among Mum’s many gifts was a keen ability to be present in the moment. She listened without interruption, not even allowing a casual glance at her watch, because she wanted those she met to know their importance to her.

Mum is survived by her daughters, Colleen (Camile Hepter), Truro, and Clare (Meredith Campbell), Halifax. She is deeply missed by her granddaughter and kindred spirit, Olivia Mary. Also left to mourn is Mike Murphy (Charlottetown), whom Mum loved deeply and thought of as a son. Mum is also survived by her sisters, Celia Millen and Linda Sorel and brothers, Larry Lamey (Carol) and Leo Lamey (Glenda). Besides her parents and husband, Mum was predeceased by her sisters, Theresa, Loretta, and Liz, and brothers, James, Willard, Don, Ken, and Bernie. Mum will also be sadly missed by Goldie and Darlene, who have become part of our family.

Gratitude and appreciation are extended to Drs. Tanya Munroe, Frank Slipp, Cortney Smith, and Dave Henderson. A special thanks also goes to Care Coordinator Sheryl Stevens, Palliative Care Consult Nurse Lisa Weatherbee, and the VON nurses and homecare workers who have become cherished members of our family. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, September 24th at 11am in the Immaculate Conception Church, 669 Prince St., Truro. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a maximum of 100 people are permitted to attend (including family - your understanding is appreciated). Please enter via Campbell Hall (back parking lot) to register and fill out Screening Form. Interment will be held in Robie Street Cemetery immediately following service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Colchester East Hants Hospice Society, the Red Cross Bed Loan Program, and the Colchester SPCA.

“He will raise you up on Eagle’s Wings and make you to shine like the sun.”