McAnulty, Marilyn Diane (Kiely)
June 28, 1941 ~ July 11, 2015
It is with profound sadness that we announce the recent passing of Marilyn, beloved Mother, Grandmother, Daughter, Sister and Friend. Marilyn left us peacefully after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer on July 11th in her home, surrounded by those she loved. She was 74 years young and is survived by her former husband Fred and daughters, Jennifer (Rich), Kyla, and Laura (Clint), four grandchildren, Nicolas, Jaylyn, Thomas and Michael; as well as her mother Thelma Kiely, two sisters Nancy (Gary) and Shirley (Peter) and a brother James. Marilyn was pre-deceased by her father, James Kiely, of Halifax, Nova Scotia. Born and raised in Nova Scotia, Marilyn was employed by The Halifax Infirmary. She moved on to Montreal where she worked and studied at Sir George Williams University. In 1970, Marilyn moved to Vancouver and then Maple Ridge but remained a Maritimer at heart. Marilyn had a gift for gardening, poetry, and cooking. Marilyn loved to dance and was the life of many a party. She was employed for many years by Sutton Group Ford Realty. In every undertaking she always showed an immeasurable work ethic. Her competence, intelligence and numerous talents amazed her co-workers. With grace and strength Marilyn battled and won the fight against breast cancer in 1991. Her true passion was motherhood and her children were her world. Marilyn was a people-person and she was kind and generous to all. Marilyn was a strong woman who spread love, humour and optimism wherever she went. In her retirement, she devoted her life to caring for her elderly mother in Nova Scotia, followed by years looking after her cherished grandchildren in British Columbia. Marilyn touched numerous lives with her kindhearted spirit and will not be forgotten. Her legacy and love of life will live on in family and friends. A Celebration of her Life is planned for August 9, 2015 from 3-5pm at the South Bonson Community Center, 10932 Barnston View Road, Pitt Meadows. In lieu of flowers, her family welcomes donations honour of Marilyn to The Ridge Meadows Hospital Oncology Clinic.