Mrs. Phyllis Dorean Murphy Lawford

      Mrs. Phyllis Dorean Lawford was blessed with an abundance of leadership qualities. It would be accurate to say that this woman was an outstanding luminary and that her natural abilities served her well. She knew with certainty how she wanted to set priorities in all aspects of her life. She struck those who knew her as the kind of person who awoke in the morning with a clear sense of exactly what she expected from her day and how to set about accomplishing those goals. Phyllis was a woman who definitely liked order and was most comfortable with an organized and structured lifestyle. When this climate was absent, Phyllis would set about immediately to create it.

       Phyllis was brought up to be reasonable in her actions and was taught to use her intellect wisely. She was an honest and straightforward child, traits that reinforced her self-confidence. Even at a young age, Phyllis was credited with having a positive influence on those around her.

      In a group of friends and acquaintances, Phyllis was typically the first person to take the initiative to go up and greet someone new. That quality made her very approachable by others throughout her life. This same quality brought Phyllis the reward of many friends. Maintaining loyalty to those friends was a trait that came naturally to Phyllis. She believed that she should treat others in a fair manner, in the same way she wanted to be treated. Phyllis also showed a great deal of appreciation for the accomplishments of her friends. Later in life, she became friends with Mary New,.

      As Phyllis knew in other aspects of her life, she had a clear vision of what she sought in a relationship and worked hard to achieve it. Robert was a significant part of her life, and it wasn’t necessary for Phyllis to be overly sentimental or expressive about it for others to be aware of their mutual devotion. Phyllis's secret to success was that she always kept the lines of communication open in the marriage and applied the important skill of being a good listener.

      Phyllis passed away on May 10, 2011 at home: 4416 Hwy 7, Omemee ON K0L 2W0. She had a massive heart attack. The Coroner said it was likely brought on by the combination of her cancer medication. She is survived by her husband Robert; her children John, Brenda, Debbie and Melinda; her grandchildren. Services were held at the Mercy of God Church, 356 Simons Ave, Peterborough ON. Phyllis was laid to rest in the Barrie Union Cemetery 338 Sunnidale Rd., Barrie ON L4M 4S4 Phone: (705) 728-2810.

      Mrs. Phyllis Dorean Lawford knew what she wanted from life and never hesitated in going after it. She could be characterized as a driven individual, someone who understood the importance of achievement. Phyllis was decisive and outspoken at times but was also positive and upbeat about most things. She was a leader, both intentionally and sometimes by default. If she saw that something needed to be done, she was always ready to step up and actualize, organize and implement a plan.

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Phyllis Dorean Lawford

Suddenly at home on Tuesday, May 10, 2011 in her 79th year. Beloved wife of Robert John Lawford for 58 years. Loving Mom of John (son Stephen), Brenda Mackenzie (Barry), Melinda Benson (Walter) and Debbie Trethewey (John). Loving Gramma of eleven and great-Gramma of four. Dear sister of Gerald Moulton. Phyllis was predeceased by her parents William and Lillian Moulton. Visitation will take place on Thursday from 2-4 & 7-9 pm at COMSTOCK FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION CENTRE, 356 Rubidge Street, Peterborough, Ontario (705) 745-4683. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm on Friday, May 13, 2011 at MERCY OF GOD MINISTRIES, 356 Simons Avenue, Peterborough. Interment will take place at Union Cemetery in Barrie, Tuesday, May 17, 2011 . Memorial donations to the Diabetes Association would be greatly appreciated by Phyllis’ family. Online condolences may be made at www.comstockfuneralhome.com