With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved wife, mother, grandmother (GG), sister, aunt, great-aunt, and dear confidant after a long illness. Chris faced her health challenges with unwavering courage and strength, never succumbing to the idea of defeat.
She was predeceased by her parents, Muriel Mary Mathias and William Geoffrey Mathias. Chris will be forever cherished and deeply missed by her devoted husband of 57 years, Stephen; daughters Treana (Bruce) and Tricia (Matthew); grandchildren Carys, Logan, Rhys, and Jada; and grandpups Maya and Daisy. In the UK, she is mourned by her brother, Peter (Cath); sisters Marilyn (Simon) and Carole; nephews Nick, Andy, Chris, and Tim; nieces Vicki, Emily, and Beccy; and many great-nieces and nephews.
Born in Cardiff, Wales, and educated at Worcester Teacher Training College, Chris embraced the opportunity to immigrate to Canada in 1967, answering an ad from the Saskatchewan provincial government seeking teachers. She arrived aboard the Empress of Canada that summer and settled in Shaunavon, Saskatchewan, where she taught Grade 1. Not fond of prairie winters, she moved west to Sparwood, BC, eventually settling in Victoria in 1974. Chris earned her B.Ed. at UVic, graduating in 1978.
A beloved primary school teacher, “Mrs. Godfrey” taught at Lochside Elementary School (District of Saanich) for over 30 years, retiring in 2004. In retirement, she and Stephen enjoyed traveling the world, visiting many corners of the globe. Chris was happiest surrounded by her family and sitting on her patio, basking in the sun and surrounded by flowers.
Our heartfelt thanks to the dedicated healthcare teams at BC Cancer, Victoria Hospice, VIHA Saanich Community Health Services, and Dr. Lynn Unterschultz, her GP, for their exceptional care up until her final day.
As per Chris’s wishes, there will be no service. In her memory, donations may be made to the Victoria Hospice Society or the Heart & Stroke Foundation.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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25 Responses
Godfrey family,
We are sending our thoughts and support to you all. While I never met Chris, I heard many wonderful things about her from Tricia and Treana; you are both a testament to your mum’s strength and resilience. She will be missed by all.
Lots of love and prayers for you all, especially Chris’s family in Cardiff who I know well
Sincere condolences to all the family, lots of love Sarah, Mike and family xx (Wales uk)
Chris dealt with her illness with grace and positivity, always grateful for her caregivers. She was a special friend and I share your loss. Donna
So sad to have to say farewell to an amazing lady. Steve,Treana and Tricia, Bill and I send hugs to you all.
We are so sorry for your loss. Please accept our heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with the whole family and wish you all strength and peace, from The Martin family (Wales)
John and I send our deepest sympathy to you Stephen and family. We have many happy memories of times spent with you. John always tells about dancing across the ocean as the two of them were on the same ship and from the same teacher college. Sending hugs.
Sincere condolences to Tricia,Treanna,Steven and all of your loved ones. Take good care.
Love and best wishes,
Carol Boyd
Al and I are so sorry to hear the passing of your Mother.
I hope you find comfort in the memories you hold dear.
Al and Paige
My sincere condolences to all the Godfrey family
I had the pleasure of meeting Chris on several occasions here in Wales and it was always great to see her
I am sure she will be sorely missed
ELAINE