Muriel was born on September 9, 1925 in Meaford to Harold and Catherine Brown. From an early age, her talent and passion for music were evident. She’ll be remembered as an outstanding organist at Knox and Grace United churches, an alto singer in the G Clef Choir, a pianist performing Two Pianos Eight Hands concerts, an accompanist and a composer of anthems. Although capable in many other ways, music was her voice, her satisfaction and her gift to others. Muriel was a kind and gentle soul, strong-willed and constant, caring and compassionate, encouraging and supportive. Her quick wit and facility with language were hard to match. She was a rock and a soft place to fall. Her influence on the lives of her grandchildren cannot be overstated.
Muriel was predeceased by her parents, her husband Gordon Essery, her brothers Wilfred Brown (Nona) and Mac Brown (Ruth) and her infant sister Isabelle. She is survived by her daughter Susan Newton of Kenora, son Dan Essery (Karen) of Brighton, ON; her grandchildren Mike Newton (Teika) of Kenora, Jodi Essery (Attila Clemann) of Gatineau PQ, and Ben Essery (Corinne) of New Westminster, BC and great grandchildren Maya and Sam Newton, Leif and Dorian Clemann and Hazel Essery. She is survived as well by special cousin Grace Risk (Mervin), several nieces and nephews, including special niece Phyllis Fleming (Therese Samuel), her sister-in-law, Mae Essery, and her brother-in-law Ed Burchart.
Muriel’s family is most grateful to Dr. Alexandra Collins and the entire staff of Meaford Long Term Care Centre for their exceptional care of Muriel during her final months.
An online memorial service will be held and interment services will take place in Meaford and Kenora when arrangements can be made. Donations in Muriel’s honour can be made to the Kenora District Festival of the Arts, the Meaford Culture Foundation; or to any animal rescue of your choice. (Cheques only please) through the Ferguson Funeral Home, 48 Boucher St. E., Meaford, ON N4L 1B9.
“There is sweet music here that softer falls
Than petals from blown roses on the grass,
Or night dews on still waters between walls
Of shadowy granite, in a gleaming pass;
Music that gentler on the spirit lies
Than tir’d eyelids upon tir’d eyes.”
Alfred Lord Tennyson from Choric Song 1 of The Lotos-eaters
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18