December 13, 1929 – July 15, 2011
Ellen passed away in the early morning hours of July 15th, 2011 after living with cancer for many years, ending a life dedicated to faith, family, and caring for others. She will live on in the hearts of John, her loving husband of 61 years, her children Jan (Bob), Thad (Sharon), Judy (Ian), Brian (Lorna), grandchildren David, Jessica (Jaret), Ryan, Kyle, Annie, Rose, Maggie, Iain and Susanna, great-grandchildren Danika and Dorian, sister-in-law Violet Hitchings and her life-long friend and cousin Bernadette Smith. Ellen was predeceased by her infant son, John, her parents Thomas and Rose Leahy, brothers Desmond, Tom, Johnny, Bernard, sisters Norah, Theresa, and Peggy, and their spouses.
Ellen lived her life in Victoria, a graduate of St. Ann’s Academy and founding member of the Friends of St. Ann’s Society. She worked for the provincial government before starting her family in 1953. She gave selflessly to her church and community, including the Catholic Women’s League, Victoria Hospice, and the Red Cross. Ellen was an avid gardener and talented seamstress, and traveled extensively with John in their retirement years.
The family would like to thank all the doctors who provided exceptional care for Ellen over the years, especially Dr. Neil Crofton, and the wonderful teams at Home and Community Care and the Victoria Hospice who cared for Mom during her final days.
Prayers will be offered at McCall Bros. Floral Chapel, Johnson & Vancouver Streets, Wednesday, July 20th at 7:00 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, July 21st, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Blanshard & View Streets, where Ellen was baptized and married. A reception will follow Mass in the McCall’s Family Centre. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Mount St. Mary’s Hospital or Victoria Hospice, two charities dear to Ellen’s heart. Condolences may be offered at www.mccallbros.com.
14 Responses
My thoughts and prayers to you Thad and your family. I just found out today that your Mum had passed away. I remember her well and how she helped my Mum when my Dad passed away, 7 years ago today. Give your Dad a big hug for me and take care. God Bless, Helen
Dear Judy and family,
We are thinking of you and your family.Our sincerest condolences to you all.
Judy,while Justin didn’t know your Mom he wants you to know that you are his forever favorite grade two teacher and hopes you remember all the very best of things you did with your Mom.
My Mom ,Ursula, sends her condolences as well.Your Mom will always be remembered as a very valuable member of the St.Patricks Parish family.
Sincerely,
Ursula Reder
Christine,John,Justin, Emily and Natalie Miller
Dear John,
We are sorry to hear of your loss, and are keeping you in our prayers.
To John and family Our heartfelt condolences to you all. She was a lovely person and will be missed very much. Alex and Marian Piercy