May Stanley

It is with great sadness, but also with deep gratitude for the life she shared with us, that we announce the peaceful passing of May Stanley, who passed away at home in Vernon, British Columbia, on July 29, 2026, at the age of 85: loved and missed more than words can say.

May was born in Liverpool, England on September 4, 1940. From an early age, music was an important part of her life, and at just sixteen years old she was awarded a pianoforte scholarship. Although music remained a lifelong love May chose to pursue nursing instead. She trained at the Liverpool Royal Children’s Hospital and the Liverpool Northern Hospital. Subsequently May qualified and worked as a District Nurse, visiting and caring for patients in their homes.

May and Barry were married in 1962. Their love was set from the moment they met, and through their sixty three years together. A great strength was May’s sense of humor that helped them through the ups and downs they shared together.

In 1969 May, Barry and children emigrated to Canada, settling in Vernon, B.C.

In addition to raising her family May managed Barry’s office, and became President of the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Auxiliary and President of the North Okanagan Youth Resources Society [Mara House].

In 1988 May, Barry and their youngest son John moved to Oakville, Ontario where May continued to manage Barry’s office.

In Oakville May was also able to express her musical talent through many years of membership in the St. Jude’s choir.

May’s greatest joy, however, came from being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She treasured her family and gave so much of herself to the people she loved. Her nine grandchildren held a particularly special place in her heart, and she was always interested in their lives, their accomplishments, and the people they were becoming. Her love extended to her great-grandchildren as well, who brought her tremendous happiness.

May’s caring nature reached far beyond her own family. She became a passionate advocate for awareness surrounding the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on the developing fetus. She gave presentations throughout Ontario, British Columbia, England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. With others, she made representation to the Ontario Legislature, resulting in all liquor outlets having to display a warning about the consequences of prenatal alcohol exposure.

May will be remembered for her kind heart, her compassion, her strength, and her wonderful sense of humour. She had a way of making people feel cared for and welcomed. Above all, May will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend.

May was predeceased by parents, Donald and Catherine MacDonald, and sister Alison. She is sadly missed by husband Barry, children, Susan, Duncan [Amanda], Mark [Ann] and John; grandchildren, Nathan, Nick, Josh [Jessica], Cory, Ava, May, Melissa, Joseph [Kelsey]and Chloe [Kaiden]; great grand children Scout, Lou, and Thea; sister Alma [Alan] and brother Rod [Dawn].