Mary Frances CULLEN

Mary Frances CULLEN

CULLEN, Mary Frances Lover of life, queen multitasker, wine aficionado, breaker of many things and mender of all. At the age of 81, Mary decided it was time to go, and so she went peacefully, surrounded by her family on Thursday, February 18, 2021. Mary was born a coal miner’s daughter, to the late James and Anne (Tobin) Clarkson.

She was a loving sister to the late James, late Barbara, Sheldon, and Gerald. Mary was larger than life, a tour de force who never sat down and was an engaging conversationalist. She had that East Coast spirit and sense of humour that spread to all around her. Her laugh could restore your faith in the world. Mary caught the eye of the late Ronnie Cullen and they were inseparable for 39 years. While most people are lucky enough to have one great love of their lives, Mary had two.

Doted upon by her partner, the late Bill Roberts. Mary is survived by her four children, whose names she never got quite right – Colette (Mike), Rhonda (Paul), Lori (Al), and Keith (Kim). Adored Gramie to Danielle, Ryan, Samantha, Melissa, Paul, Nicole, Riley, Corey, Sydney, Charlie, Ronnie, and Emily. Best friend and partner-in-crime to wee Edna – united, they were thick as thieves. Mary’s many nieces and nephews who she treated like her own, and her many friends who she treated like family, were blessed by her actual heart of gold. You’d find Mary wherever the action was. Fueled by Tim Horton’s and a zest for life, she never went anywhere without her purse, her lipstick, her hair curled, and dressed to the nines. Mary’s sass and quick wit made an impression on everyone she met. A genuine scallywag, her antics and escapades always made for great stories. She excelled at cooking, dancing, swimming, shopping, card-playing, movie-going, and weaving yarns – literally. The queen of hospitality, Mary brought people together with laughter, love, and her world-famous shortbread cookies.

Family meant the most to Mary, and as the matriarch, she glowed with happiness and pride whenever they were around. Her love for her grandchildren was unmatched, and she smothered them with silliness and loose change. Animals of all kinds were drawn to her positive energy. Mary was a true giver and gave until she could no longer. A private family service will be held at Jones Funeral Home on Wednesday, February 24, 2021 at 11:00 a.m., 11582 Trafalgar Road, Georgetown, 905-877-3631.

A livestream will be available for remote attendees. Memorial contributions can be made to the Willow Foundation (www.willowfoundation.ca/donate), Silver Creek Place Adult Day Program, a place where Mary found purpose and laughter. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you do something nice for someone else unexpectedly and without explanation – in true Mary form. To send expressions of sympathy visit www.jonesfuneralhome.co A special thanks to the SUPERHEROES at Extendicare Halton Hills for the kindness and dignity they showed Mary and family. “Though she be but little she is fierce” – W.S