Obituary of Mary Lela Grant

It is with a tremendous sense of sadness and grief that the family of Mary Grant announces her passing much too young, at the age of 53. After a day of experiencing deep love and friendship at St. Joseph's Hospice she passed the evening of July 16, 2022.

The child of Lois Grant and Don Grant and sister to John and Tim, Mary Lela Grant was born March 29, 1969. She grew up in London, a pony-tailed, talkative burst of energy with a smile that lit up the room, eager to love and be loved.

From a young age and throughout her lifetime Mary strived to make a difference in the lives of people she met. We were all made better by knowing her.

She graduated from Laurier Secondary School. Then it was on to Western where she graduated with a Master's degree.  She obtained her PhD in economics from the University of Toronto.

Mary began her professional career in Ottawa with the federal government's Immigration Department, aiding women in their settlement to Canada. 

The birth of her son, Sam, was followed by a move to Canmore, Alberta for a short while  and then a return to live in Belmont and then London

At the time of her death Mary was an employee of the Toronto-Dominion Bank. She joined TD in 2004 and quickly developed the reputation as a caring and devoted people person, always willing to share her deep knowledge and support others. Her passion centred around finance and analytics. 

Known by friends as a dancing queen, Mary led an active lifestyle throughout her life. Sports was a huge part of it. As a youngster she played ball and Slo-pitch as an adult. Floor hockey was another of her favourite activities. She had just started playing pickle ball. A devoted fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs, she watched on TV and attended many games over the years. 

Mary was always able to bring her sense of humour to the table and was equipped with a well-timed wit. This was evident even during some of the last and darkest months and days of life.

She believed in women’s, LGBTQ2 and Indigenous rights, and justice for all. Mary always displayed kindness and caring for others, especially the disabled. One of things that gave her great joy was coaching a Special Olympics floor hockey team.

Mary's cancer was aggressive, unrelenting and mean. It took her away from us way too quickly and we miss her deeply. We're only comforted by the fact that she is now resting in peace.

Mary is survived and loved by her beloved son Sam - the light of her life.  Also her mother Lois, stepmother Vicky, father Don and his wife Marg, brothers John (Angela) and Tim (Annette), her partner Pat Copps, her godson Jackson and his sister Kennedy, as well as step nieces and nephews. She is also lovingly remembered by aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends.

Mary wanted to write thank you letters to everyone who supported her throughout her illness, but was not able to do so. Her family wishes to express deep appreciation in her place.

A celebration of Mary's life will be held on Thursday, July 28, 2022 at 7:00pm - 9:30pm. with stories of Mary starting at 7:30pm. Location Civic Garden Complex 625 Springbank Drive, London.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to St. Joseph’s Hospice.