Lillian Carole Howey

Peacefully with family by her side at home, on Sunday, July 14th, 2024, Carole of London, at the age of 90 is reunited with dearly beloved family members. A Loving mother of the late William (Bill) Cox, Patricia (Patti) Cox (Robert Farrington), Edward (Ted) Cox (Judy).  Adored grandmother of Victoria Graham (Matthew) and Katherine Wakem (Darren). Predeceased by parents Sydney and Lilian Howey, brother Gordon Howey (Nancy), sister Judi Jackson (Don), and 5 nieces all of Toronto and Kincardine.

Carole met and fell in love with a dashing lacrosse player, Murray, as a young lady ready to take on the world. They married and began great adventures at home and abroad. Work took the family of 5 overseas to help pioneer a Northern Telecom plant in Istanbul, Turkey in 1970 for 2 years. Some family visited them but when vacation time arrived, they toured Europe, the Middle East and the British Isles. This experience gave Carole the travel bug.  When returning to Canada they settled back into London, ON. At 40, and on her own, Carole attended Fanshawe College (RN) and worked many years at both Parkwood Hospitals then with home care supports until retirement. She worked to travel and see the world, visiting more than 30 countries making memories that lasted a lifetime. She was a devoted mother to her children and always lead by example to be independent, thoughtful, giving, spiritual, and kind.  She was an elder at Calvary United Church, volunteer at The Grand Theatre for 25 years, and placed defibrillator units at favourite theatres in SW Ontario.  She and her buddies travelled the country roads every summer frequenting picnic spots, B&Bs, antique and farm markets; all to shop local and support the economy! As Grandma to Victoria and Katherine, they all enjoyed sharing parasols, ponies, plays, treehouses and trains while decked out in Happy Wear! In later years she slowed down to enjoy quiet life in a “home with a view” of downtown London.  Retirement Home living was her last stop, allowing her to make all her own decisions. This, in her mind, was the most important accomplishment.

Carole’s family wishes to extend sincere gratitude for the support of many people.

To friends who kept in touch through thick and thin, especially Nancy R. of Toronto/Owen Sound.  She said hello to the new kid in Grade 5 at Bowmore P.S. and invited her to sit at her desk, then spent decades knitting and sending new colourful socks to warm her feet and heart. To the Lunch Bunch of nurses who meet monthly for about 40 years now.  To the neighbours at her homes who always looked after each other, the support agencies like Meals on Wheels and Unger’s Market who made the pandemic sustainable for her.

Her last move was to Longworth Retirement Home. Words cannot express our thanks for keeping her happy and well. We understand she reciprocated.  Dinner with her “Table Mates” was the highlight of each day.  To the staff members who made her light up and smile, you know who you are, keep smiling!

Special mention goes to healthcare workers who delicately and proactively helped her keep her dignity as she declined recently. Dr. Claude Gorman, MD; PCOT03 Homecare team who allowed Carole to make her own End of Life plans, especially Terri, Dr. Theo, & Jessica. The recent days and weeks in her home were possible solely due to the care and compassion of the LRH Wellness Team who responded when needed with smiles and empathy. Hats off to all!

At our mother’s request, no service will be conducted.   Cremation has taken place. She will be laid to rest alongside her parents in Owen Sound.

Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Carole are asked to consider a Salvation Army, Calvary United Church in London, Heart and Stroke, Meals on Wheels or Children’s charity of your choice.