Tribute

Mary Ann Deacon, age 90, lived a remarkable life defined by her deep commitment to helping others and tireless community service. She was passionate about service at the organizational level but was not afraid to get her apron dirty whether it being baking for a community event or working at a smoky bingo fund-raiser.

When Mary Ann turned 90 in June, she did not want to draw attention to herself by having a birthday party. But when asked if she would like to attend her own wake, she was all in. So, on June 13th, her 90th birthday, instead of a traditional post-passing memorial, she was able to attend her own celebration—surrounded by family, lifelong friends, and members of the various communities she touched—to hear firsthand how deeply she was admired, loved, and appreciated.

One of her many joys was driving. A “Never drive faster than your angels can fly” ornament hung by her speedometer. Whether she was navigating the highways to see her grandkids, go to the symphony, or simply offering a helping hand to friends who needed a ride, being behind the wheel was an extension of her generous spirit and her desire to keep her community connected.

Mary Ann became intimately aware of the suffering that can accompany death through the death of her son Craig at four years old. Rather than being overwhelmed by the tragedy, she stood tall in face of death to support her family. Her family believes that this transformative experience led to her passion to support those facing death and to do so with Love, kindness and grace.

Mary Ann is survived by her children Rob Purgavie (Maura Walker) Duncan, Bruce Purgavie (Elaine) Texada Island and her daughter Kate Anderson (John) Merritt. She is predeceased by her granddaughter Jocelyn of Terrace. Her grandchildren Jaime, Jenna, Stuart, Zach, Braeden and Elliot all have vivid memories of stories read by their grandma. The legacy of love and reading is held dearly by her great grand children Calvin, Colt, Haddie Jane, Millie, Clement, Charlie, and Mable Mary.

Moments after her death on September 10th, a large murmuration of birds flew over Hospice House; a symbol of divine unity, interconnectedness and beauty during transition. It also speaks to the power of independent yet collective action working together in life. The symbolism perfectly expresses how Mary Ann lived and how she died. (Readers are encouraged read more about the spiritual symbolism of a murmuration and listen to David Francey’s song “Grateful”.)

The family would like to express appreciation to all caregivers involved in Mary Ann’s life. To give is to receive. Her dying at Hospice House was in many ways a gift where caregivers, friends, family and community could find ways to give back to the woman who gave so much. Please consider gifts to Hospice so Mary Ann’s legacy can live on, but more importantly so others and their families may experience the grace and Love that fills that place.

A poem was read after her death that talked about being able to feel the pull of the tide. A small ceremony honoring Mary Ann and this idea will be held at a future date.

From her “Order of Service” at her “Living Wake” June 13, 2026:

• Born June 13,1936 in Vancouver to Tom Deacon and Harriet Dixon. Mary Ann was the eldest of four children. Survived by Joe Deacon and family, Kamloops. Predeceased by her sister Kathleen, Victoria and brother Bruce, Likely.
• Graduated in nursing in 1957 at the Royal Columbia Hospital, New Westminster
• Had four children with Bob Purgavie: Rob, Craig, Bruce and Kate.
• 7 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren
• Moved to Duncan in 1968
• Last nursing job at Cairnsmore Place in Duncan.
• Returned to school to earn a teaching degree in 1978 and a master’s degree in early childhood literacy in 1995
• Taught at Alex Aiken and then found her niche at Alexander as Learning Assistance teacher
• Started and ran Chemainus Book and Card Company for 3 years
• Upon retirement from the Cowichan School District, spent 1 year teaching English at a university in China
• VERY active in community service, including:
  • CGIT at the United Church
  • Started Mother’s Morning Out with friends
  • Board member and chair of Growing Together Child Care Centre
  • Passionate Cowichan Valley Hospice Volunteer including Vigil attendant, fundraising initiatives such as Reel Alternatives, board member and chair during the establishment of Hospice House
  • Member of many community groups such as Probus, University Women and Elder College

Lover of libations with friends, right to the end…