Obituary

passed away peacefully surrounded by her husband and children on May 7, 2020 in her 86th year. Audrey lived in the Palmerston area all her life. Beloved wife and best friend of Jim Connell of Minto Township. Audrey married Garfield Hughes on October 27, 1956. Cherished Mom of Chris Hughes and Ellen of Ottawa, Kathy Lyle (Hughes) and Brian of St. Thomas, Elizabeth Clarke (Hughes) and Paul of Vancouver, Jon Hughes and Dale of Calgary. Loving Gran of Rory, Keifer, Lauren, Deren (Heather), Kara (Josh), Noah and Ethan. Beloved great-gran of Judd, Maxim and Shea. After marrying Jim on October 10, 1981, Audrey took in his family as her own. Dear step-mom of Ken Connell, Judy and family of Howick Township, Rhea Connell (Behrns) and the late Murray Connell of Minto Township, the late Jack Connell, Carol Ann Pinkney (Connell) and Brian of Denfield. Loving Grandma to Kaleda, Dustin (Megan), Dawn (Cole), Mac and Kaila. Beloved great-grandma of Elsy and Darla. Born in Wallace Township, Perth County on July 29, 1934 to parents William “Bill” and Hannah Speers. Predeceased by sister Isobel Chalmers (Speers) and brother-in-law Jim Chalmers and brother Bruce Speers. Sister-in-law to Donna Bell (Hughes), Margaret Burrell (Hughes), Millie Fair (Hughes), Lorna Hutchison (Hughes) and Gary, George Zeigler and Rose. Predeceased by sister-in-law Shirley Zeigler (Hughes) and brothers-in-law Tom Bell and Doug Burrell. Loving aunt of many nieces and nephews. Sister-in-law to Mary Anne Connell and the late Alex Connell of Minto Township. Audrey graduated from Women’s College Hospital School of Nursing in 1955 and worked as a nurse at Palmerston General Hospital in the 1970s/80s. Audrey was a kind, patient, gentle and compassionate woman who graciously welcomed all into her home. Family was always at the forefront of Audrey’s life and she cherished all family gatherings, big and small. With her love of farm life, strong work ethic, beautiful gardens and ability to whip up a pie in a flash, Audrey was a true country gentlewoman. Sewing was a keen interest of Audrey’s and over the years she completed many projects including a beautiful quilt for each of her children and twelve grandchildren. Audrey was very involved in her community throughout her life. She volunteered countless hours with the Carry-On Women’s Institute, the Palmerston United Church, the Palmerston Agricultural Society and the Palmerston and District Hospital Auxiliary. Travelling was a large part of Audrey’s life. She and Jim enjoyed a broad range of travel to some exotic locations including Eastern Europe, New Zealand, China and Africa. Visiting family in western Canada, attending live musical/theatre productions, and gliding around the dance floor were all activities Jim and Audrey enjoyed together. Audrey lived a blessed, full and active life. She will be missed by all who knew her. During this time, the family will be holding a private service at the Palmerston Cemetery. A community celebration of life will be hosted at a future date. Memorial donations to the Palmerston United Church or the Palmerston and District Hospital would be appreciated in lieu of flowers, and may be made through the Hardy-Lee Funeral Home, Harriston. Cheers to Audrey! Online condolences at www.hardyleefuneralhome.com