Remembering Mary Audrey Jarvis

MARY AUDREY JARVIS (nee Mahon) January 25, 1930 - January 9, 2023

Full of grace until the end, our beloved Audrey passed away peacefully, surrounded by family. Predeceased by her husband, Keith, she leaves behind her children, Kathy Abels (Frank), Maureen (Kieran Foster), Jim (Brenda Jarvis) and Ted (Lisa Plow-Jarvis); thirteen grandchildren, Peter, Matthew, Jimmy and Katie Abels; Emily (James), Olivia and John Jarvis; Audrey and Mary Foster; Keith, Harrison, Luke and Isobel Jarvis; and her great-grandchild Birdie. Audrey is also survided by her sister-in-law, Kathy (Paul Meade). Audrey was predeceased by her parents, Edna and Tony; and her brothers, Larry and Jim; and her sister, Connie Corner. Her peaceful resolve and inquisitive nature made her a trusted confidant and mentor to nephews, nieces, and friends of her children.

A proud Winnipegger, Audrey attended St. Mary's Academy and the University of Manitoba, where she graduated with a degree in Home Economics. She continued postgraduate studies at University of Minnesota and became a Registered Dietitian, pursuing hospital work in Portland, Oregon, and later in life, teaching nutrition at George Brown College. An inspired leader, Audrey's University yearbook noted 'she has proven that the fairer sex is as capable as their opposites.' President of her university class, Audrey was valedictorian of every class from which she graduated. Her zest for life led to travel to Europe and work in Lake Louise, Minnesota, and Oregon, all of which inspired a sense of adventure in her children and grandchildren. Audrey and Keith enjoyed retirement, travelling to visit children in Japan, South Africa, England, and Australia.

While raising four children in Etobicoke, Audrey and Keith were a guiding force in the community. They ran spiritual retreats for hundreds of high school children, as well as the marriage preparation course at their parish. Audrey was the recipient of an Award of Merit from the city of Etobicoke for creating a reading program where local seniors tutored school children. She was an active member of the Catholic Women's League and the University Women's Club. Mom enjoyed her tennis, golf, and a good party. She created a warm family home where everyone was welcome and we felt secure in her unconditional love. She selflessly put family ahead of herself, supporting our lives to be the fullest they could be.

Mom's humour, humility and grace are gifts that will be felt for generations. A Mass followed by a Celebration of Life will be held at Nativity of Our Lord Church in Etobicoke at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, March 31, 2023. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Covenant House. Online Condolences may be made through: www.turnerporter.ca.

Published by The Globe and Mail.

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