Mary Pickard
January 27, 1920
May 27, 2023
It is with a great sense of loss, but also a lightness that comes from experiencing such love, that we announce the peaceful passing of Mary Grace Pickard (nee McPherson). She was predeceased by her husband, Edward Norman Pickard, her sister, Peggy Howey, her sons Brent and Garth, and her daughter-in-law, Gloria. Her sister, Jean Thorton; grandchildren, Meaghan, Brandi (Jeff) and Brad (Nadine); great-grandchildren: Amélie, Bailey, Chelsea, Blair and Marika; nieces, nephews, cousins and special friends, especially Jane and Jeanne, will miss Mary deeply.
Mary was born in Edmonton, to her Scottish father, William, and her English mother, Grace. She was the eldest of three girls. After the passing of their mother when she was 11, Mary took on the role. She was a fiercely independent, loyal and resilient girl. She had several well paying jobs as secretary/bookkeeper. Mary and Norm married in 1942. She contributed countless hours to St. Mary’s Anglican Church and to Boys Scouts of Canada. As her sons grew, so did the occasions to host musical gatherings, and many remember her warm presence at these memorable events.
Mary was a woman of great style and generosity. Accomplished in sewing and knitting, she loved to gift her creations to family and friends. Special Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls and sleeping bags, as well as beautifully prepared meals and exquisite cakes, graced special occasions. She also loved to shop and would get great joy from treating loved ones to a new outfit!
Her zest for life was evident through her many travels. The wisdom she gained both from experiences she lived and her exceptional age was shared freely. She was a woman with very broad shoulders, and she would support and listen to all. She was passionate about politics both global and local. You’d better have your facts straight if you were going to get into a debate with Mary! Adventures were had often due to her rebellious nature, right up to her last days.
Deepest thanks goes to the Fanning Centre in Calgary, for the rehabilitative therapy they provided to help Mary to walk again after her stroke this past fall. And to the Canmore Hospital staff, for your care and compassion during her time there. Thank you also to Dr. Morin for your great support.
Origin at Spring Creek had been Mary’s residence for the past 8 years. It truly was home for Mary. She was loved and loved you all very much. You made a profound difference in her life, and in the lives of her family, too. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
As per her wishes, she has been cremated. Her remains will be buried alongside those of her late husband in Lethbridge.
She did not want a service…she wanted birthday parties! It is miraculous that there were 103 birthdays to celebrate! Still, somehow it does not seem like enough time. Therefore, in her honour, enjoy the gardens you plant, the delicious meals you eat, and above all, the company of your loved ones, just a little bit more, every day. In appreciating the smallest of things, her inspirational and encouraging spirit will live on in us all.
