Obituary of Mollie Maria French

FRENCH: Mollie Maria (nee Davey) – A lifelong resident of Chatham, Mollie French passed away at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, Chatham Campus with her family at her side on Wednesday, February 18, 2015 at the age of 90. Mollie was the daughter of the late George & Maria (Wrixton) Davey. Beloved wife of the late Murray French (1980). Cherished mother of Brian of Chatham and David (Suzi) of Blenheim. Proud “Grandma M” to Andrew and Keira. Predeceased by her sister Gladys Rose (Murray) and sister-in-law Audrey Holmes (Arthur), both of Blenheim. Remembered fondly by her nieces Margaret Rose of London, Annalea Benn (Rick) and Janette Holmes both of Blenheim and nephew Wendell Holmes (Linda) also of Blenheim. Mollie started her teaching career in the mid 1940’s in one room school houses in Dover Township, retiring as “Miss Davey” from McKeough School in 1967 to become a fulltime mother. She was proud of all of her Kindergarten students, many of whom went on to great success in life. Mollie was a prolific writer, having authored histories of Kenesserie Camp, Victoria Avenue United Church and St. Paul’s Congregational Church. She quietly amassed one of the largest collections of Kent County postcards, many of which were published in local history books. She had been a member of the Superannuated Women Teachers of Ontario and was the Past President of the Kent Branch. She remained active at St. Paul’s Congregational Church and provided volunteer support in various local public schools. She spent many summers at her beloved cottage at Rondeau Provincial Park, a legacy that she was able to provide for her children and grandchildren. Family will receive friends at the Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham on Friday from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. A Funeral Service will be held at the Funeral Home at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2015 with Rev. Dr. Margaret Moriyama officiating. Private family interment to follow at Van Horne Cemetery. Donations may be made in memory of Mollie to the Chatham-Kent Hospice or to Talbot Trail Place Community Park (care of the Rotary Club of Blenheim). Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com McKinlay Funeral Home 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham 519-351-2040 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16