Obituary of Mary Constance McClenahan Watson

Mary Constance McClenahan Watson - In Chatham, Ontario with her family at her side on November 4th, 2012 at the age of 89, following a lengthy illness. Mary was born on July 7th, 1923 in Mimico, Ontario to Dr. Claude Andrew McClenahan and Mary Rosamund Colquhoun McClenahan. In 1948 she married William Hanks Watson of Blenheim, Ontario and remained married to him until his death in 2003. Mary dedicated her life to her family. She is survived by her three children, Joan (Fraser), Martha, and Peter (Peggy). We will all miss her strong, passionate spirit and unwavering convictions. Her grandchildren, Ian Britton, Jamie Johnson, Mary Charteris, and Blair and Stewart Watson will all greatly miss their Nana. She is also survived by her sister Rosamund McClenahan of Burlington, Ontario. Her other siblings, Evelyn McClenahan, Blair McClenahan, and Ellen Weaver are predeceased. A woman of quiet dignity, Mary was an enthusiastic golfer and bridge player and enjoyed these activities with many friends over the years. Her friendships, both in Canada and in Casey Key, Florida were a source of ongoing pleasure to her. Mary’s intelligence and inquisitiveness were evident in every facet of her life. Though she suffered from macular degeneration from her early 70’s, Mary continued her primary roles as wife, mother and grandmother in an exemplary way. Not one to be deterred by obstacles, Mary always lived her life with a strong sense of integrity. She was a most loyal advocate for those people and causes she loved. The family would like to specifically thank Connie McCorkell for her many years of dedicated support and loyalty. Also Helen and Ken Smyth have provided invaluable assistance. Cinda Kay, Judy Bishop and Claire Marchant provided unfailing support and kindness. We would also like to acknowledge the Chatham Kent Community Care Access for their many years of assistance. We are grateful for all your help. The family will receive friends at the McKinlay Funeral Home, 141 Park Street, Blenheim, Ontario on Wednesday, November 7th from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. A private family funeral will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) or Chatham Kent Community Care Access, Palliative Care Consultation Team.