MARY ACHESON (NESBITT) EVERNDEN passed away peacefully on Thursday morning, September 20, at the age of 97.

Born in 1909 in Goderich, Ontario, Mary came west with her parents, Will and Emma (nee Acheson) and sisters, Beulah (Hugh), Emma (Hershel), and Helen (Edmund). The family eventually located near Coaldale, and Mary taught at several rural schools before marrying Leslie Hal Evernden in 1939.They spent the war years in Vancouver, where Leslie was employed in manufacturing Boeing aircraft, and subsequently returned to southern Alberta in 1949. After settling in Lethbridge, Mary resumed her career as a primary school teacher.

She retired in the mid-1970's, to enjoy travelling and the company of her friends and relatives. Always concerned with the comfort and well being of others, she was a tireless and dedicated hostess who enthusiastically welcomed her many visitors.

Mary is survived by her son Neil (Frances), grandsons Derek and Blake, and by her many cherished nieces and nephews and their offspring, all of whom shared in her abundant affection. She will be missed.

At her request, there will be a private ceremony and interment at Mountain View Cemetery, but all who knew her are invited to join the family at the LETHBRIDGE SENIOR CITIZENS ORGANIZATION, 500-11th St. S - - which constituted an important part of her life in retirement - - at any time between 2 PM and 4 PM on Monday, September 24, 2007.

Mary contributed regularly to a large variety of charities, believing with her husband Leslie in their obligation, as members of a fortunate society, to support worthy causes on both the local and national level. Given that, she would undoubtedly be pleased if any who wish to remember her do so by contributing to their own favoured charity.