Gracious and resilient to the end, Kathryn “Kay” Porter passed away peacefully at the age of 98 at her Berwick-Royal Oak residence. Predeceased by her husband, Alex Porter, and her brother, Charlie Deen, Kay leaves many to mourn her passing but never to forget her keen intellect, marvelous wit, infectious laugh, and generous spirit.
With deepest affection, she will be sadly missed by her children, John (Jean Grant), Susan (Brian Corregan), and David Porter (Cynthia Boyd); her grandchildren, Shannon and Robbie Corregan and Seamus and Angus Boyd-Porter; her niece, Diana (Ray Pry), great nieces, Rachel and Kathryn, and great nephew, Chuck; and her close relation, Jock Munro.
A lover of literary women spanning several genres, Kay enjoyed re-reading the works of Jane Austen, Gene Stratton-Porter, Agatha Christie, and Barbara Pym. In truth, Kay was extremely well-read in multiple areas and well known for her lively conversation on just about every topic. Admirably, she was a Latin scholar, graduating from The College of Wooster (Ohio) in 1948 and where, she met Alex. A born educator, Kay taught Latin and was a librarian at St. Margaret’s School in Victoria for nearly two decades.
Kay’s many and varied academic interests led her to pursue a series of hobbies that fascinated her, specifically family history. Seriously devoted to tracing multiple branches of the family tree, Kay joined fellow genealogists on annual trips to Utah, long before records were available digitally. As a long-time member of the Victoria Genealogical Society, Kay often volunteered, sharing her expertise with others. She also was an obvious choice as guest speaker for various horticultural groups who were interested in understanding botanical Latin.
With her family, Kay cruised the Gulf Islands and Desolation Sound in several well-loved vessels. In multiple log books, Kay kept meticulous records of summer cruising experiences. Both she and her husband’s love of being on the water left a lasting impression on children and grandchildren alike, as many have followed mariner leanings in both their professional and personal lives.
Though Kay missed her long-time friends and neighbours of Cordova Bay, she soon made many friends at the Berwick-Royal Oak where she was an avid bridge and scrabble player and volunteer librarian. Before her passing, Kay recited the following Latin phrase as a farewell to all: Ave atque Vale. The family would welcome condolences sharing thoughts and memories of Kay Porter. A private celebration of life will take place at a future date.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
14 Responses
“David and family – Wish I had met her. Sad that she is gone; good that you had her for so long. Your trans-Canada visits were, I am sure, a highlight for both of you, plus Seamus and Angus, the bi-Coastal grandsons. Families grow up and spread out, but they hold fast too. Lots of good memories to cherish for all of ye.” Kevin & Janet
Mrs Porter was a wonderful teacher to my daughters, Frances and Tanya Cownden, at St. Margaret’s School.
Condolences to her family
Franne Dodswy
David, Cynthia, Seamus, Angus and John,
We met Kay many years ago when she visited St. John’s, and have heard much about her over the years. By all accounts, she was a remarkable person, and you are very fortunate to have had her in your lives for so long. Cherish your memories of her – as long as you remember her, she will still be with you.
Thinking of you all, Wish and Linda in St. John’s
Our condolences to all Kay’s family and the many friends she made while sharing her extensive interests in so much life has to offer. We shall miss our times with Kay who was a very dear friend and neighbour over many years.
We shared happy times at our book club, exploring family history and playing bridge. Her well considered analysis and discussions of world current affairs continued to the end. Kay was a valuable contributing member of our retirement home “Pub Pals” group. Her knowledge of word derivations often led to puns and much laughter. Her love and expertise at Scrabble was admirable and when told of a couple who played in Latin she responded that they would probably need more letters – maybe ‘u’s and ‘m’s. Sail on Dear Friend