Tuesday, January 24, 2012

REV. MARY STRAW - SHE DIED ON CHRISTMAS DAY

 
I have just learned of the passing of Mary Straw. This was a truly great lady. She was mother and teacher and counsellor and priest to men, women and children shunned by most of society.
 
Over the years, I attended many of Mary's gatherings with her many "children" of all ages.  She was a remarkable woman who lived every day as a true disciple of Jesus. Her home was her church and a refuge for the weak and confused. There was always music and plenty of food for everyone and prayers and laughter. She was a soldier, though, and she ran a tight ship. No nonsense, but endless love.
 
Mary cannot be replaced, but I am hoping that those who assisted her through the years will find ways to continue supporting her flock. They will be lost without her.
 
Phyllis Carter

Mary Straw 

1925 - 2011 Mary Straw passed away peacefully on Sunday December 25th, 2011 in Georgetown, ON at the age of 86. Mary was a WW II veteran and was commissioned as a Captain in the Woman's Army Corps (India). Raised in Burma, she was evacuated from Rangoon to India during the Axis invasion. In tribute to the many missionaries that influenced Mary's early life, she was devoted to supporting her community. In 1966 she founded The Helen Tufts Nursery School in Kingston, ON and in 1973, a support group that became the Julia Kraft Celebration Centre in Pointe Claire, QC. In 1992, Mary was awarded the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada Medal as a Canadian who made a significant contribution to their fellow citizens, to their community or to Canada. Mary is survived by her children Peter James (Cynthia Asquith), Michael Austin, Mary Anne, her sister Lucy Butterfield, grandchildren, friends and the community.Mary will be interred with her late husband (Austin Joel Straw) at The Last Post Fund National Field of Honour in Pointe Claire, QC. A memorial celebration is to be planned for the near future. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to World Vision Canada or charity of choice.

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