Gently and peacefully, as she lived, Helma Mayne passed at Derbecker’s Heritage House, St. Jacobs on June 21, 2024. Predeceased by her beloved husband, Wilfred (2013). Dear mother of James (d. 1973), Maryellen (Gerry) Hahn, Michael (Judy) Mayne, Catherine (d. 1956), Patricia Mayne, Stephen (Ferne) Mayne, Gerald (Helen) Mayne, Margaret (Bill) O’Neill, Mark (Winnie) Mayne and Greg (Dara) Mayne. Cherished grandmother of 20 grandchildren and 37 great-grandchildren. Helma is survived by her sister-in-law Mary Lou Armstrong. She will be fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews, some of whom thought Auntie Helma had a “direct line to heaven” because of her unwavering faith. The last surviving member of her immediate family, Helma was predeceased by her parents, Edward and Mae Morris, brothers Edmund, James, Carberry, Patrick, Kevin, Jordan and sister Mary. Trained as a teacher, Helma taught all elementary grades in a one room school house prior to, and briefly following her marriage. As family grew, the kitchen table became her substitute desk with Mom reinforcing the value of education. Mom played the piano proficiently and enjoyed both classical and pop music, often dancing around the kitchen in a short break from interminable tasks. Before the deficiencies associated with memory loss, she followed current national political issues with much interest; the National time slot being sacrosanct. Faith and family were the cornerstones of her life, sustaining her through joy and sorrow. By her words and example, she remained a source of comfort and inspiration for her family. Our mother had an inner strength that, despite bending with the storms of life was never broken. Family is truly grateful for the care that Mom received at Derbecker’s Heritage House for the past eight and a half years. Special thanks to Dr. Scotchmere for her empathy and to all admin and staff for the compassionate care. You were Mom’s second family. Visitation was held on Monday, June 24, 2024 from 2-4 and 6-8pm at St. Teresa of Avila RC Church, 19 Flamingo Dr., Elmira. Funeral mass was celebrated at St. Teresa of Avila RC Church on Tuesday, June 25, 2024 at 11am. Reception, and interment in Drayton Cemetery followed. If desired, donations may be given to Derbecker’s Heritage House or World Peace.
“The state of one’s heart inevitably shapes one’s life; it is ultimately the place where everything is decided.” – John O’Donohue
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