McKAY, (nee AYER) CATHERINE MARJORIE - Catherine passed away peacefully of natural causes, at home, on December 13, 2012 at the age of 91. She was predeceased by her parents, Amos Ayer and Doris Crandall, her brother James (Jim) Ayer and her beloved husband Paul. She leaves her daughter Pegi, son-in-law Bob Lutes, her three grandsons, for whom she had great love - Chris, Daniel and David; and her constant companion Mack (the cat). She is also survived by her brother Karl Ayer and his wife Sharon, her sister-in-law Ellen Ayer, and many nieces and nephews across Canada. Catherine grew up in Sackville and attended school in Halifax, before moving to Fredericton. She then worked briefly as a weaver and for the provincial government, before moving to Canterbury, NB as a new bride - at the tender age of 36. Alas, country life was not for Mum, and she and Dad eventually returned to Fredericton, where they spent more than 30 very happy years in Skyline Acres. From an early age, Mum had a keen interest in and talent for art, and enjoyed drawing and painting and keeping her hands busy. She claimed she was never ever bored as she always had embroidery, quilting or knitting ‘projects’ on the go. Mum loved gardening and competed over the years with her brothers for the ‘biggest and best’ tomato in the fall. She was also very fond of animals and delighted in watching the birds in various backyard feeders built by Paul. In her later years she took great pleasure in her grandsons and even in her early 80’s could ‘hold down the fort’ for an evening. Catherine was truly a gentle woman with deep faith, much inner strength and grace, and we will miss her terribly. Catherine’s family is so very grateful for, and humbled by, the loving support of her caregivers: Maggie, Mirsada, Sarah and Kathy, as well as the wonderful support from Extra Mural, Dr. Frances MacDougall, and Extra Mural Nurse Brenda, all of whom worked together and allowed us to have Mum remain at home when her health declined.
There will be no visitation and a private family service will be held at a later date. For those who wish, remembrances may be made to the Fredericton Community Kitchen or a charity of your choice. www.bishopsfuneralhome.com