It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Ann on Easter Sunday. After a courageous battle with a rare cancer, she died peacefully surrounded by her loving family. Daughter of Gordon & Adele Neill, sister of Lesley (Don McCrimmon) and Gordon (Annette). She will be greatly missed by her daughters Caroline and Chrissy (Kevin) and her son Barry (TJ).  She was Gran to Christopher and Rebecca, Aunt to Paul McCrimmon (Karen), Scott McCrimmon (Shannon), Gordon Neill Jr. (Jen), Andrew Neill (Rina), Jennifer Neill-Smith (Dave) and Great Aunt to Colin, Iain, Wesley and Reece and lifelong friend of Susan Moore.

Mary Ann had a long and full life which included summers at the family cottage on Lake Simcoe, where she developed many wonderful, lifelong friendships, as well as her love of swimming which she did competitively her whole life as a synchronized swimmer.  She competed regionally, provincially and nationally in the masters program for many years.  Just this year, at age 80, she competed in the Regional Championships in Brantford.  Her collection of gold medals could fill a trophy case, but more impressive than her accolades was her dedication, discipline, and unrelenting spirit.

She grew up in North Toronto, attended Loretto Abbey high school and the University of Western Ontario.  In 1965, she married and embraced her greatest role as a mother to Caroline, Chrissy, and Barry, who filled her heart with joy.

She was affectionately known as "Gran" to her grandchildren, with whom she shared deep and meaningful bonds. Whether cheering from the stands at Christopher's hockey games (even if she didn't always understand the calls), chatting with Rebecca about art, baking and the many things in life that make it so beautiful, or sharing her culinary experiments, Mary Ann made every moment with family meaningful.

Mary Ann was endlessly curious and a lifelong learner. In 1994, she became a certified handwriting analyst and later founded Handwriting.ca. Her expertise led her to serve as Co-President of the Ontario Chapter of Graphoanalysts, and she earned several prestigious awards, including International Graphoanalyst of the Year, becoming the first Canadian to do so. Her family quickly learned not to leave handwritten notes lying around unless they were ready for a phone call about what their penmanship revealed!

When cursive writing began to disappear from school curriculums, she acted and became a certified cursive writing coach, ever determined to fill the gaps she saw in this space.

In later years, she brought her sharp mind and organizational talents to a new profession as a professional minute-taker, working with condominium boards throughout Ontario. And through all her endeavors, she always found time to give back, finding immense joy volunteering with young athletes in the Special Olympics, an experience that earned her special recognition and countless smiles.

Mary Ann was the life of every party, hosting unforgettable Tacky Christmas celebrations and even organizing her own surprise 80th birthday party. Her laughter was infectious, her presence inspiring, and her heart open to all.

She leaves behind a family, a community, and a legacy that will continue to ripple through generations. To know Mary Ann was to feel seen, heard, and cherished. She reminded us that kindness is a superpower, and that there is always joy to be found, if only you're willing to look for it.

We will miss her deeply, remember her fondly, and celebrate her always.

A celebration of Mary Ann's life will be held on Sunday May 4, 2025 from 1-4pm Kopriva Taylor Community Funeral Home, 64 Lakeshore Road West, Oakville ON L6K 1E1

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the charity of your choice.

A special thanks to the team of Doctors and Nurses at Credit Valley Hospital for giving such great care.