BRENNAN, MARY BLANID - At the Saint John Regional Hospital on January 11, 2004, Mary Blanid Brennan of Johnville passed away at the age of 79. Blanid is survived by her children, John (Noreen) of Fredericton, Justin (Maureen) of Saudi Arabia, Joseph (Carol) of Johnville, Patrick (Sharon) of Fredericton, Paul (Jacqueline) of Carlow, Margaret-Anne Brennan of Toronto, Mary-Alice Brennan of Calgary, Maureen (Brian) Guidry of Fredericton and Peter (Katharine) of Carlow, 20 grandchildren, sister, Justine (Harold) Cantrell of Dallas, TX, Brother, Peter Sharkey of Melbourne, FL, predeceased by her husband John and son Walter. "Following graduation from St. Vincent's Girls High School in 1943, Blanid began a teaching career that spanned over 25 years, retiring in 1988. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in 1977, and Bachelor of Education degree in 1984, both from the University of New Brunswick, while teaching school full time and raising her family. Her commitment to education continued following retirement, serving on the executive of the New Brunswick Retired Teachers' Association. In addition to her passion for learning, another of Blanid's core values was service to others. The strongest testament of this was her tireless devotion to the Catholic Women's League of Canada. A charter member of St. John the Evangelist Parish CWL, Blanid served in many capacities at the local, diocesan and provincial levels, including President of the Saint John Diocese CWL and Vice President of the New Brunswick Provincial Council of the Catholic Women's League of Canada. In 1996, she was awarded life membership in recognition of over 50 years of service to this sisterhood. In 2000, Blanid was presented the Bishop William Dollard Medal, in honour of her significant faith-inspired service to her church community." Resting at St. John the Evangelist Church Johnville 2-4 and 7-9 pm on Wednesday January 14, 2004, Mass of the Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 11 am from the Church, Rev. Keith Nielsen officiating. Interment will be in the Johnville Cemetery at a later date. Donations may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis, Kidney Foundation or to the Retired Teachers Foundation. Arrangements by Kilcollins Funeral Home Ltd. (278-3238) Bath, NB. www.kilcollins.com