Mary Reay George, of Lethbridge, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 13, 2022, at St. Michaels Palliative Care at the age of 88 years. Mary was born in Lethbridge on September 12, 1933.

She is survived by her three children, Robert "Bob", David (Lorie), and Dorothy; six Grandchildren, Catherine (Kris) McLaughlin, Laura George and Allison George; Julie (Allen) Parker, Amanda (Matthew) Baines, Bradley (Rachelle) George; twelve Great-Grandchildren; one Great-Great Granddaughter; sister Florence "Flossie" Erno, and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was pre-deceased by her loving husband of 67 years, James L. "Jim" George; her daughter-in-law Magdalena "Maggie" George; sister Ruth Wright, and her parents Arthur and Ethel Norman.

Mary had a zest for life, coupled with a quirky and endearing sense of humour, loved her family deeply, and enjoyed numerous life-long friendships. As a devoted wife and mother, Mary created a wonderful and welcoming home using her considerable talents in cooking, baking, and sewing. She loved to host family and friends for elaborate meals, celebrations or just conversation over coffee and a cookie. She had a passion for and talent in music, singing in United Church and Community Choirs and leading many family sing-a-longs. Mary and Jim created many family traditions that have left numerous fond memories for their entire family.

They traveled extensively to Britain, across Canada and USA with favorite destinations in Victoria, Hawaii, and the Lake District of England. Jim and Mary also loved camping throughout Alberta and B.C. Attending cultural and athletic events of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought Mary great joy. Mary enjoyed playing games of all kinds, watching Blue Jay’s games, and playing practical jokes. Mary courageously fought cancer for over 20 years, maintaining her typical positive outlook, humour and enjoying the company of loved ones.

Mary was a woman of character, faith, compassion, and kindness and will always be fondly remembered by each of her family members and numerous friends.

A Celebration of the Life of Mary George will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 21, 2022, at SOUTHMINSTER UNITED CHURCH, 1011 – 4 Avenue, S., Lethbridge, with Reverend Taylor Croissant officiating.

Those who wish to remember Mary with a donation may do so at “It’s About Music” at PO Box 33006, RPO Upland, Lethbridge, Alberta T1H 5P2 or to the charity of one’s choice.

The family wishes to thank the staff of St. Michaels’ Palliative Care Unit, Dr. Walsh and the Palliative Home Care Team for the kind and loving care provided to Mary. 

The service will be livestreamed on the Southminster United Church Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/SouthminsterUnited.