The death of Marilyn Donnelly occurred on Friday, February 17,
2012 by accident in Kelowna, British Columbia where she was visiting
family. She is survived by her husband Fred Donnelly of Rothesay and
Professor of History at the University of New Brunswick in Saint John,
her children Sandra (Stephen Tobias) of Saint John and James (Julie)
of Kelowna and her four grandchildren; William, Alexander, Sarah and
Miles.
Born September 12, 1949 in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad she was the
daughter of Georgiana and the late Andrew Johnston of that city. A
graduate of Holy Name Convent School in Trinidad, Marymount College in
Quebec City and Carleton University in Ottawa she also took university
courses at Sheffield University in Sheffield, England and at the
University of Alberta in Edmonton. She and her husband had been
residents of Sheffield and Edmonton before moving to New Brunswick. A
resident of Rothesay since 1979, Marilyn worked for several years in
the school libraries of the Kennebecasis Valley and briefly in the
medical library of the Saint John Regional Hospital.
A volunteer for many organizations including Scouts Canada and
Read Saint John as an adult literacy mentor, at the time of her
unfortunate death she was volunteering as archivist for the Saint John
Theatre Company. She was an accomplished painter and photographer and
some of her travel photographs had been published in national
media.
Marilyn was an avid traveler who enjoyed the challenge of
organizing expeditions, overcoming obstacles and making difficult
journeys run smoothly. In the past year she and Fred had several
wonderful experiences spending time in such diverse places as Pasadena
and San Diego in California, Athens and Crete in Greece, a wilderness
retreat on Vancouver Island, Harlow and London in England, and a
Donnelly family reunion in Hudson, Quebec.
Everywhere she went Marilyn appreciated what the local culture
had to offer. She went to the theatre, attended art and photographic
exhibitions along with museums and the archaeological sites across
some two dozen countries she had visited in the world. Food was
another of her passions, both its preparation and enjoyment, and her
favourites were the West Indian, Chinese and Indian varieties.
She will also be sadly missed by brothers Keith (Oylan) Johnston
of Toronto and David Johnston of Los Gatos, California and sisters
Helen Rignault of Calgary, Janice (Gary) Carefoote of Toronto,
Catherine Henry of Lynchburg, Virginia and many nephews and nieces.
She will also be deeply missed by brothers-in-law Graham (Leslie)
Donnelly of Westmount, Quebec and Alan Donnelly of Vancouver.
Arrangements are entrusted to Kennebecasis Community Funeral
Home, 152 Pettingill Road, Quispamsis, (506) 849-2119, with visitation
on Monday, February 27, 2012 from 7-9 PM and the following day Tuesday
from 2-4 and 7-9 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 31 Gondola Point Road,
Rothesay, on Wednesday, February 29, 2012, at 12:00 Noon. A reception
will immediately follow the Mass, at the church hall.
For those who wish, donations may be made to a charity of the
donor’s choice. Online donations and condolences may be made
at: www.kennebecasisfh.com
Condolences
Our familys thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. We all thought the world of Marilyn during our time together with Boy Scouts at St. Davids United church.
— Chris, Pat, Colin and Matt
We are deeply saddened to hear of the sudden loss of Marilyn. Our heartfelt sympathy to the family.
— Rick, Anne Marie and Andrew Robichaud, Grimsby, Ontario
Auntie Marilyn was a genuine and always loving person who will be greatly missed. You welcomed me into the Johnston family and always made me feel at home wherever we were. May you be joined at peace with Grandad in heaven. I am thinking of everyone and wishing I could be there for support. Take care and my thoughts and prayers to everyone. Love, Gracie Chantiam
— Grace Chantiam
My parent and I were deeply sadned to hear of this tragic accident, our thoughts, love and prayers go out to you and al of yours.
— anthony bourque
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
— Marcia Dysart
Dear Fred, Sandra, & Family,
We were both shocked and saddened to learn of Marilyn's death and extend our heartfelt sympathies and condolences to you. Our caring thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.
Most sincerely,
— Bernard & Elizabeth Cormier
I was saddened to hear of Marilyn's death. I first met Marilyn when our boys were in Beavers together, many years ago. Later, we worked closely when Marilyn worked for the school district library. I last saw Marilyn two weeks, after not seeing her for a few years and she was excited about your plans to travel now that you were both retiring. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time and you have many great memories to cherish.
Gail Eastwood
— Gail Eastwood
Sandra...I was very sorry to hear of the sudden loss of your mother. I remember her bringing you to your early childhood choir concerts.May God comfort you and your family at this difficult time.
— kevin langford
Sandra- I am so sorry for your loss. Your Mom was so lovely and so helpful when you were involved in high school theatre and KV Players. She had a quiet dignity and a warming smile. I am sending prayers your way. She was justifiably proud of you.
— Suzanne Doyle Yerxa
Sandra and family,
It was very sad to hear of your loss. My deepest condolences to you.
Dee
— Dee Stubbs-Lee
Those we love don't go away,
They walk beside us every day,
Unseen, unheard, but always near,
Still loved, still missed and very dear.
— Staci Reynlds
Sandra - so very sorry for the loss of your mother. My thoughts & prayers are with you & your family,
— Krista Graham
Dear Fred;
I wish to express deepest sympathy to you and your family upon learning of the tragic death of your wife Marilyn. Words fail us at times like this to adaquately convey comfort or understanding of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are for you at this time.
In sincere friedship, -Innis McCready
— Innis McCready
I was shocked and so very saddened to read of Marilyn's death. I have such wonderful memories of her while working with School District 6. She was such a sweet, caring person and truly a good friend. My prayers and sympathy are with you all at this time. Rosena Crouse
— Rosena Crouse
I have very fond childhood memories of Mrs Donnelly, when i think of her i have a vision of her beautiful smiling face!! She was even cheery when she was driving Sandra and i to the rink at 7am no the cold winter mornings. My deepest condolences.
— Sara Mckay (Tozer)
Dear Fred, We were so saddened to hear the news of Marilyn's tragic death. I have fond memories of her from our time in Saint John, when we used to meet at events connected to UNBSJ. She sometimes joined our "play group" gatherings, and I'll always remember her warmth and her radiant smile. Our deepest sympathies to you and all your family at this difficult time.
— Marion and David Macfarlane
I was a mature student in the 80's at UNBSJ in a History Class of yours. I remember you fixing my glasses on Exam Day in the Gym at the University. Please accept my sincerest compassion at this time. I cannot even imagine...You and your family are in my prayers. Ardell
— Ardell Wills (Duperreault)
Sandra, I'm so sorry for your loss. I wish there were any words, that could be offered to bring you some comfort, though I know too well that there are no words that hold such power. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
— Dana (Bangay) Hainbuch
Dr. Donnelly & Sandra:
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I want you to know that you are in my thoughts. My prayers and best wishes and thoughts are with you both.
Respectfully and Sincerely;
James.
— James E. DuPlessis
My deepest sympathies go out to the Donnelly family. I had the pleasure of meeting and working with this beautiful lady at the Saint John Regional Hospital Library. A woman very proud of her family who she would speak of often with that extra twinkle when speaking of her grandchildren. She will be sadly missed. My prayers are with you.
— Greta McConkey
Dr. Donnelly - Please accept my deepest condolences at this sad and difficult time. I still remember most fondly the several history courses I took from you whilst an undergraduate at UNBSJ. You are in my prayers.
— Rev. Dr. Mark G. McKim
We do not know Marilyn Donnelly but felt compelled to send our heartfelt condolences to the family.
— Janice & Mike - Kelowna, BC
James,
My heart is deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of your mother. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. God bless her.
— Kelly McKinnon
James
my daughter and you were classmates through your school years.I work at the superstore and your sweet dear mother always asked about my daughter and we always discussed you and happily talked about our grandchildren...I am so shocked and saddened by your loss...She was so looking forward to her visit with you.My heart breaks for you
— Helen McKinnon
Dear Sandra, Stephen, and Family: How incredibly sad. Our hearts go out to you all at this difficult time.
— Robert Moore and Judith Mackin
Dear Fred, Sandra and James - Buck and I have you in our prayers and trust GOD to help you thru this difficult time. Marilyn was a true "friend" in every sense of the word and will be greatly missed. We have wonderful memories gathered throughout the years, as do you, these we hold dear to our hearts. As a wonderful Wife, Mother and Friend, Marilyn will not be forgotten. Love Always,
Dawn
— Dawn and Daryl Buchan
Dear Sandra,
We were shocked and deeply saddened by the notice of your mom's untimely death. Her visits to the store(Baubles) were always very welcome; she was a lady of beautiful taste and manners. Our hearts go out to you as you face the difficult days ahead.
Our sincerest sympathies,
Rebekah Hawrish
Phillip and Deborah Losier
— Rebekah Hawrish; Phillip and Deborah Losier
Words cannot even begin to express our sorrow.May the love of those around you help you through the days ahead.
— Bj and Amber Pountney
so sorry for your loss our thoughts and prayers
are with you all. From the Mc Cabe family in
Ireland
— Anne Marie Mc Cabe
I am so deeply sorry for this tragic and sudden loss. Over time, may your sadness be replace with joyful memories of a beutiful life lived and love shared. God bless you and your family, and light perpetual shine upon her.
— Cindy (Goucher) Pope
Like everyone else, upon hearing of this it took us all sometime to digest the fact that this was a reality check. We are all truly saddned by her passing. May God grand you and your family the courage and strenght at this difficult time and may her good soul Rest in Peace. Blessings...
— Martin Lawrence on Behalf of the Lawrence Family....
it was with much sadness that I heard the news of Marilyn's untimely death. For several years I had the opportunity to work with Marilyn in School District 6 library services and also during her time volunteering at Rothesay Elementary. She shared her love for reading during her work helping parents, teachers and students find just the right read.Her support at schools and in their libraries contributed much to the community.
— Janet Smyth
Derek and I were shocked and saddened to learn of Marilyn’s tragic death. Our love, thoughts and prayers are with all of Marilyn’s and Fred’s families – may God bless and comfort you all in your sorrow. Marilyn and I go back a long way, from our days at school together, and growing up only two houses away from each other. I will treasure the memories of many holidays spent together at her Uncle’s holiday home on Gasparee Island off Trinidad. Our friendship was maintained despite the miles between us – corresponding at Christmas each year and through emails. Marilyn and Fred visited New Zealand in 2004 while Fred was on sabbatical, and spent a weekend with us at our home – those memories will be treasured, as well as her Christmas letter last year with the lovely photos of her family. May she rest in peace. Marie Anne and Derek Philipps (New Zealand)
— Marie-Anne
Dear Fred, Sandra and family, James and Family. The Johnston family - a family I consider my own -as I spent so much time with you all - without question ONLY with a whole lot of acceptance and love. Such fond memories of down the islands, and Tobago. I treasure the wonderful family updates from Marilyn of the family activities with photos. I will remember driving in the Rothesay area a few years ago and reminiscing of the good old days. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Catherine & Brian O'Brien
— Catherine
Dear Sandra and family,
Words have left me, but thoughts remain. She lived well and left the world a better place. I will remember her.
— Evan Mackay
Fred and Family - so very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Ase & Grant
— Ase Berg & Grant Kelly
Sandra and Family,
I was very saddened to hear about the loss of your Mother. Thinking of you and your family.
Lisa Kilpatrick
— Lisa Kilpatrick
We share your grief at this time.
We are praying with you.
God bless
Charles and Jan
— Charles and Janelle and family
Dear Fred: Heather and I were distressed to hear the sad news of Marilyn's death. Please accept our sincere condolences to you and the family. Marilyn was a lovely person and we always enjoyed our chance meetings when shopping in Rothesay. Our thoughts are with you in this sad time.
— Ian and Heather Cameron
Our deepest sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
— Chris Walsh & Suzy Kimball
Dr. Donnelly - Please accept my condolences at this difficult time. May the support and love you feel from family and friends feel just as sudden as the accident that took your wife.
— Chris Weir and Family
Hello Catherine my deepest sympathies are with you in time of your loss. I pray for comfort and peace for your family during this time. See you soon. Beverly Herndon
— Beverly
Fred, Sandra and James,
I was so shocked and heartsick to hear about your wonderful mom's passing. I pray that you will support each other and glow in the amazing memories of such a beautiful and amazing woman. She touched everyone who met her.
Thanks, Nancy LeClair
— Nancy LeClair
Sandra,
Your mother will remain in my memory as a woman whose joyous embrace of life was an inspiration. I feel priviledged to have known and worked with her. Each time we met was a moment of grace. May her quiet strength and deep love comfort you during this time of tragic loss.
— Kathryn McCarroll
I worked with Marilyn at District #6. I send my thoughts and prayers to her family. Well liked she was.
— Rena Fairweather
You have been in our thoughts every day since we got the tragic news.Tomorrow we will join you in spirit as you pray and give thanks for Marilyn's life.
— Marina,Jerry,Christian,Courtenay and Morgan
James, I'm so sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
— Kris & Deanna McMenamon
With Deepest Sympathy, for the tragic loss of a wife and mother. Our prayers are with you all in this time of sorrow.
— Marie & Peter Ayow
Fred,
You must be devestated at the loss of Marilyn. My deepest condolences to you and Sandra and all the family. Marilyn was a wonderful woman, devoted to family and community. It was always a joy to be in her company. I regret that some health problems prevent me from attending a visitation or the funeral. My thoughts are with you and yours at this difficult time.
Tom
— Thomas J. Condon
Fred, Joe and I were so sorry to hear about Marilyn. You and your family are in our thoughts.
Miriam
— Miriam Jones and Joe Galbo
Dear Fred,
Sincerest condolences at this difficult time.
Your colleagues at
AUNBT
— Association of University of New Brunswick Teachers
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
— Kelli Wield
So sorry to hear about Marilyn. I am Marie Anne's sister and knew Marilyn as a young girl. Will have a Mass said for her. God's love comfort you all, Marjorie.
— Marjorie Currie (nee Ferreira)
We did not know Marilyn but we were among the first responders while we were on a family ski vacation in Kelowna.
We are deeply saddened by your loss and we will always have Marilyn in our hearts and thoughts.
Please accept our heartfelt condolences.
Tim and Jo Anne Knutson
— Tim and Jo Anne
Dear Fam. of Marilyn.
My sincere feelings are with Mother and fan. for the loss of Marilyn before her time.
I have known her only one day in Trinidad when we were 15.
It was a special day for me visiting from Suriname.
I have never forgotten her total friendship for that one day.
She had a gifted life.
May she rest in peace.
— Mieke Koenraadt
