VARNEY, Kathleen “Kay” Mary (née Murphy)

July 19, 1946 - February 8, 2024

Kathleen Mary Varney (Murphy), age 77, of Fergus Ontario, passed away suddenly but peacefully due to a rare and sudden stroke on February 8, 2024. She was continuously surrounded by the love of her family and friends until the very end. She was born July 19, 1946 in Dublin, Ireland to David and Kathleen Murphy. She married her soulmate Derek James Varney, on August 11th 1969. They immigrated to Canada in 1983. Kay was adored by family, friends and coworkers alike. She loved her garden, a day at the beach, flowers in the house, a good book, shopping and a tasty hamburger with fries. She was known to enjoy a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio with family and friends. Kay loved fashion and was always dressed to impress. She was always looking forward to her next adventure, having traveled extensively. Kay often talked of her many trips to Hilton Head South Carolina, Cocoa Beach, Florida, China, Ireland and England to name a few. Family was immensely important to Kay. She is survived by her husband Derek, brother Denis (Margaret) Murphy, two sisters Geraldine and Dolores. Three adult children that she was tremendously proud of: Karen (Brian) Tomchick, Paula (Jim) Newton, and David (Alison) Varney. Seven grandchildren: Nathan, Megan, Kaelyn, Devyn, Jack, Cole, and Brock. She also leaves behind her beloved dog Maggie. Please join us in celebrating her life Saturday afternoon February 24, 2024 between 2pm and 5pm, with a tribute scheduled at 3pm. Location will be the Graham A. Giddy Funeral Home (https://www.grahamgiddyfh.com). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada (https://www.heartandstroke.ca).