MARY PACKWOOD HARRISON

It is with deep love and heartfelt sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of Mary Veronica Packwood Harrison on December 25, 2025, at the James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre in Gander, NL, surrounded by her loving family. 

Mary was welcomed into divine grace during the season of hope and light. Having navigated her cancer journey with remarkable courage and grace, she served as a true inspiration to us all. Passing on Christmas Day seems fitting, as she departed this world as gently as she lived in it, surrounded by love.

Mary was born on May 24, 1949, in the town of Howley, Newfoundland. She was the cherished daughter of Frederick Cecil Packwood and Ida Madeline Coombs.  She was the only daughter of a carpenter, and was raised alongside her brothers Basil, John, and Brian. From her early years, Mary learned the importance of family, hard work, and looking out for one another—values that guided her throughout her life.

Mary was the beloved wife of Peter Harrison, with whom she shared 54 years of marriage built on love, loyalty, and partnership. She was a devoted mother to Nadine (Jody Boyd) and Sebastian, and a proud and loving grandmother to Carolyn and Laura Boyd, who brought her immense joy and happiness. Family meant everything to Mary, and she treasured the moments—big and small—spent together.

She was predeceased by her parents, her brother Basil, and her infant sibling, Gerald.

Mary graduated high school in 1967 from Labrador City Collegiate with a Diploma in Business Education. She had a curious mind and a quiet love of learning; exploring interests such as French language, music, piano, sewing, quilting, painting, writing, and always worked on personal growth at her own pace and in her own way.

Before moving to Gander three years ago, Mary was a dedicated, long-standing member of the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Women’s League in Labrador City. Throughout her time there, she held various executive positions and was actively involved in volunteering and fundraising initiatives.

Music was close to Mary’s heart. She found comfort and joy in singing with her church choir in Labrador City and later shared that gift by lovingly playing piano for the choir and for funerals. After moving to Gander, joining The Chorus Community Choir became a bright and meaningful part of her life, bringing her deep happiness and friendships that felt like family. Mary’s infectious sense of humor and vibrant zest for life left an indelible mark on her fellow choristers

Above all, Mary was a caregiver at heart and dedicated her life to serving others- the sick, the lonely, and the less fortunate. Her generosity and open heart were especially evident in her kindness to clergy, particularly Father Joy and any of his visiting friends and relatives.  She had a deep compassion for others and a natural instinct to notice when someone needed help, comfort, or a warm meal. Her home was always open, and her kindness was shared quietly, thoughtfully, and without fanfare. Mary gave of herself freely, simply because she cared.

Mary lived for many years with chronic fatigue, a challenge she faced with determination, patience, and grace. Despite this, she continued to give what she could to those around her, and her experience made her especially understanding and empathetic toward others living with unseen struggles.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Joseph’s Roman Catholic Parish Church in Gander.  A reception will follow the funeral mass, hosted by the St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Women, at the McCarthy Centre.  

All are welcome to attend.

The family would like to express their sincere and heartfelt thanks to the Palliative Care Team and the compassionate doctors, nurses, and staff at James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre for their gentle, respectful, and dignified care, which brought comfort to Mary and her loved ones during her final days.

Mary will be lovingly remembered for her gentle spirit, kind heart, quiet strength, and the deep love she had for her family.

“Thank you for coming. God love you and bless you.   

Amen.”