Frances Lawrence

Family and friends are saddened by the death of Frances Anne (O'Keefe) Lawrence on October 19, 2019 at Hotel Dieu of St. Joseph Hospital.

She will always be missed and lovingly remembered by her husband Wayne, son Allison (Maria), daughter Sandra (Chris) Turner, grandchildren Kaleb, Jakey and Callie, sister Mary (Ted) O’Keefe-Robak, brother John (Linda) O’Keefe, sisters-in law, Bonita (Edward) Hanscomb and Carolyn (Winston) Craig.

Frances was a woman of abiding faith who walked in grace. Her calm, gentle manner ensured that she was first to offer a comforting word to anyone in need. She was no stranger to difficulty and challenge herself. As a child, she mourned her beloved father and namesake, Dr. Francis (Frank) O'Keefe, and carried the sadness of his death throughout her life. Yet this tragic event, in part, shaped her as the tender, compassionate woman she became. In 2005, her dear mother, Marjorie, died, but not before passing on solid values, eternal faith, and unending hope to Frances, Mary and John.

Frances and Wayne laid enduring cornerstones of love and respect when they married in 1977. Her greatest joys came from being Wayne's wife, the mother of Allison and Sandra, and most especially being “Nana” to Kaleb, Callie, and Jakey. She was very proud of all of them and was their greatest cheerleader and comforter during good and difficult times.

Frances' mind was sharp; her family, friends, and colleagues at the Mental Health Clinic in Perth-Andover, enjoyed her lively, quick sense of humour. Frances was a lifelong learner and had a variety of interests. One of her most important accomplishments was earning a black belt in Ninjutsu. It played an important role in her life. She loved hand to hand combat, but even more important than the physical aspect of the discipline, was the perseverance and inner strength she acquired that helped her face any fear. Even when it meant standing alone. Coupled with her enduring faith and steadfast belief in the power of prayer, she drew from a well of strength, especially during her own illness, and during Wayne’s recuperation from a serious accident.

Frances' kindness and consideration extended to four legged creatures, and she and Wayne opened heart and home to many abandoned kittens over the years. In return for a cozy lap to curl up in, they blessed her with the comfort of quiet companionship, particularly appreciated as her energy waned.

She appreciated nature; her connections with people were lasting and well beyond the superficial; her relationship to God, deeper still. Frances believed in the power of prayer and in miracles. She didn't realize that, to those who knew her best, she was the miracle- a loving daughter, sister, wife, parent, grand-parent, niece, cousin, friend-all in one. Frances O'Keefe Lawrence leaves the world a better place, just for having been in it. We will remember her always with love.

Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Mary of the Angels Catholic Church on Thursday, October 24, 2019 at 2 pm. Father Gilbert Doddatto celebrated, assisted by Father Olivet Okoro. Interment followed in the parish cemetery.

Music for the service was by David Eagan. The eulogy was given by Kelly O'Neil-O'Keefe.

Pallbearers were Stefane Robak, Simon Bush, Winston Craig, Chris Turner, Edward Hanscomb, and Alex Vanyo.

1 Peter 5:10 The God of all grace, who called you to his everlasting glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish those who have suffered a little while.