O'LEARY, CELIA
Celia Jane O’Leary, age 86, formally of Woodstock, died at home in Coles Island, Friday, June 2, 2015. Celia was born in Wales, January 1, 1929; daughter of Alfred and Gwendalyn Vizard.
At the age of 19, Celia left Wales to visit her war bride sister Betty (Tobin) in Debec, New Brunswick, with adventurist plans to tour Canada and the United States. Her travel plans changed when she met Albert Edwin Fawcett of Nortondale, NB. They married in Debec, December 1948, and raised a family of four in Grafton: David Fawcett, Janet Fawcett (Doucet), Christine Fawcett (Dube), and Bruce Fawcett. When Bruce started school, Celia re-entered the workforce and was employed at Carleton Memorial Hospital, initially as a seamstress, then in the business office until she retired in 1988.
In 1979 Celia married Colonel Martin Timothy O’Leary of Saint John. Celia became an active member of the Royal Canadian Legion in Woodstock and served many years on the Auxiliary holding various positions, including President. She was also an enthusiastic dart team member and for many years managed the bingo, and whenever a special event was held at the Legion you could be sure to find Celia in the kitchen directing traffic.
Celia was always fond of animals and over the years many stray cats and dogs were invited into the family.
Largely due to the “mobility” of her children, she did get to see Canada coast to coast and much of the US. She also made trips to Australia, Europe, and Mexico.
Celia is predeceased by husbands Albert and Martin and sisters Betty and Madeline. She is survived by sister Olwyn, her four children, three grandchildren (Christopher Fawcett, Gillian Doucet-Campbell and Jennifer Doucet) and two great-grandchildren (Ayvlyn and Cambree Doucet-Campbell).
Per Celia’s wishes, there will not be a memorial service.
In her memory, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
A special thank you to the Extra Mural Nurses who took such good care of Mom.
Arrangements are in the compassionate care of Chipman Funeral Home Ltd. & Crematorium (339-6612). Please share you memories of Celia at www.chipmanfuneralhome.ca