Mary Elizabeth White

White, Mary Elizabeth. June 29th 1937 - October 18th 2013. Peacefully in her sleep, after a very brief illness, at home surrounded by her family. She leaves behind her loving husband, Les, of 54 years; daughters Marybeth (Richard Summers), Kathleen (Claire Coulber), Trish (Brian McLean); grandchildren Heather and Sean Deakin, Rheanna Summers, Kieran Murphy-White, and William McLean. Mary was born and raised in New York City, attending St. Bartholomew’s and Hunter College where she graduated with a degree in Education. She began her teaching career in Spanish Harlem, New York during the late 1950s and early 1960s. After starting her family and re-locating to Toronto, Mary resumed her teaching career at Senator O’Connor and St. Malachy’s. In retirement, mom continued her passion, as a substitute teacher in Aurora. She leaves behind a large number of students whom she inspired with her passionate teaching and love of them as individuals, many of whom have pursued the teaching profession with equal dedication. Mary was the heart of her family providing life lessons of compassion and humour as well as ensuring that connections were maintained with our extended family in the United States. She leaves behind her brothers, Dr. Robert Heelan (Barbara) and Dr. Frank Heelan (Ann), her sister-in-law Isabelle White all of New York, and Rita White of Nashville Tennessee as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was a cook, a gardener, artist, doll house enthusiast, and a lover of “floor plans.” Mary was a very active member in the Catholic Women’s League of Our Lady of Grace church in Aurora. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her: family members, neighbours, former students, and the “Rustywood Gang.”

Visitation will be held at the Thompson Funeral Home, 530 Industrial Parkway South, Aurora, 905-727-5421 on Monday October 21 from 2-4pm and 6-8pm. A funeral mass will take place at Our Lady Of Grace Church, 15347 Yonge Street, Aurora on Tuesday October 22 at 11am.

Donations to a charity of your choice would be appreciated.