May Esther James

"The Matriarch" –

In her 85th year, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 22, 2017, surrounded by her family.

May was born in Stoke-On-Trent, England on December 27, 1932. Pre-deceased by her parents; Ernest and Alexandria and her sister Rose. She is survived by her loving brother E. John Tranter, sister-in-law Vivienne , nephews Ed and Rob, and a large extended family in England.

May was the wife of 46 years, to the love of her life, the late James Edward James. May “The Queen”, is survived by her five children; Bernice (George), Russell (Linda), Gary (Dawn), Brad (Lisa), and Samantha (James). May, better known as "The Nana", is survived by her grandchildren: Amber (Rich), Natalie (Sharvin), Courtney (Peter), Chelsea (Rob),Carly (Aaron), Sommer, Candace (Ahmod), James (Nancy), Christopher, Joanne, Michael (Tarah), Steven (Kailey), Bradley, Olivia, Emma and 12 great-grandchildren. Also survived by her partner George Dassaro.

As a young girl in England, May completed her Free Hand Paintress Apprenticeship at

Wedgewood of England. She would use her talent to aid in the success of her business. Her

work is on display at Wedgewood Museum. May and Jim immigrated to Canada with their eldest daughter Bernice in 1956. St. Catharines would become their home to continue growing and raising their family. May would go on to run a successful ceramic decorating business for 20 years (Heritage Arts

China); serving the business community in St. Catharines and surrounding area. She was a

member of the Zonta Club, St. Catharines Chamber of Commerce, President of the Maywood

PTA, Sunday School Teacher at St. Thomas Anglican Church and a Lady Shriner.

In keeping with May's wishes cremation has taken place. Visitation and service will be held on

Wednesday, October 25, 2017 at the Hulse and English Funeral Home & Chapel, 75 Church St., St.

Catharines, from 10 a.m. until 12 noon. A Memorial Service will be held in the chapel at noon. Following the service a celebration of life will be held.

The family would like to thank Linhaven, especially the care and love given by; Lucy, Joanne,

Connie, Necca and Anna.

In lieu of flowers, May would like donations to the Alzheimer Society

of Niagara or sponsorship to the James family Walk for Memories team "The Nanas."

http://support.alzheimer.ca/site/TR/WFA/WFA_ON_Niagara?team_id=9660&pg=team&fr_id=2212