HAYES, MARY THERESA
Mary Theresa Hayes passed away peacefully at Pine Grove Nursing Home on May 1, 2015. Born in Devon, New Brunswick, Mary was the daughter of Leo and Loretta (McGivney) Hayes.
A strong work ethic was developed early in life from making daily deliveries of milk from the family farm with her sisters. After attending schools in Fredericton, Mary put into practice that strong work ethic during her career with the Department of Education from which she retired as Director of the School Book Branch. She would often be seen fashionably dressed walking the Carleton Street Bridge to and from work until she purchased her own car which took her on trips far and wide in New Brunswick with her many friends.
As evident by her boisterous spirit and ready laugh, Mary was not all work and no play. She loved her spiritual and social life. She was quite the actress appearing in many church plays, playing badminton in the church hall, and being an active member of CYO at St. Anthony’s. Because of her generous spirit, she also believed in giving back to the community serving many years as Brown Owl and Cub Master, and delivering Meals on Wheels.
The family farm was the focal point of Mary’s life where she helped with the chores, took care of her aging parents and assumed the role of Hayes clan matriarch. Making her home a welcoming place for all, she hosted many family reunions and social events for her friends and neighbourhood bridge club. Mary was particularly proud of her Irish heritage, as reflected by her love of Irish music, celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, and realizing a lifelong dream by visiting Ireland.
Because of her pride of place and not being shy at giving her advice or opinion, Mary was referred to by some as the “Mayor of Devon”, but to family she is remember as devoted daughter, supportive sister and affectionate aunt.
Mary was predeceased by sisters, Frances Hayes, Joan Sterns, and Patricia Robertson and is survived by her sister, Edith MacKay of Sillery, QC. She will be fondly remembered by her many nieces and nephews, Anne, Ian and Kathy (Beaton) Robertson; Mary Jo and Susan (Walker) Sterns; Donald, Patrick, Terry (Johnston), Hayes, James, and Tony MacKay, as well as their respective families.
A special thank you goes to the compassionate staff of Pine Grove Nursing Home who took such good care of Mary.
Visitation will take place at McAdam’s Funeral Home on Monday, May 4, 2015 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church on Tuesday, May 5, 2015 at 11:00 am with Rev. Monte Peters as celebrant. Interment will take place in the St. Anthony’s Catholic Cemetery following Mass.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pine Grove Foundation, Meals on Wheels, Fredericton Food Bank, or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Personal condolences can be left at www.mcadamsfh.com.