Mary Constance Hanley Lissy Colbert passed away peacefully on July 1, 2026, at the age of 93. Born in Yorkton, Saskatchewan, she grew up in Victoria with 9 siblings. Her early years shaped her commitment to compassion, community, and service.
As a young woman, Mary joined the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart in California, where she discovered her lifelong passion for teaching and art. Her first teaching position in Victoria was at Sacred Heart Elementary. After leaving the order in 1970, she continued teaching in California before returning to Canada. She devoted 24 years to the Greater Victoria school district, teaching at Vic West Elementary, Pearkes Centre, Oaklands Elementary, Richmond Elementary, and Blanshard Elementary.
Her retirement years were filled with gardening, artwork, exercise class, and treasured time with family and friends.
Mary was predeceased by her many Hanley siblings and their spouses, as well as by her first husband, Walter Lissy, and her second husband, Pat Colbert, with whom she shared some of her happiest years. She is survived by her sister Margaret, sister in law Beverly, and beloved nieces and nephews. She will be missed by her best friend Judy and her friends at the Seniors Centre.
Mary will be remembered for her gentle strength, love of family, and generosity. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and the countless students whose lives were enriched by her presence.
A celebration of Mary’s life will be held on September 19th at 10am in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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