Obituary of Sister Mary Lois White

Sister Mary Lois White

The Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph in Canada, London Neighbourhood, announce the death on Wednesday, November 27, 2019, of our dear Sister Mary Lois White at the Residence of the Sisters of St. Joseph at 485 Windermere Road in London.  Sister was accompanied on the last part of her journey by the Sisters, along with the Care Centre Staff.

Born Rita Ann White, on September 5, 1924, Inverness, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, the sixth of ten children.  Predeceased by her parents, Peter Paul and Mary Elizabeth (Mae Hannigan) White, brothers Murdock (Annie), Frederick, Alexander (Judy) and Bernard, and sisters, Florence (James) Gillis, Mary Ellen (Ronald) MacDonald, Georgina (James) Warren.  She will be missed by her sisters Loretta (Robert) Finn, Pauline (Francis) MacKinnon), sister-in-law Lillian White, and numerous nieces and nephews, especially Bernard (Brenda) White of Nova Scotia, and James White of Ottawa.  Affectionately remembered by the Sisters and Staff at the Residence, for her wonderful sense of humour and East Coast spirit of fun. 

Sister Mary Lois’ combination of organizational and people skills enabled her to work as personnel Director at Marian Villa in London, pastoral ministry in Sarnia and London, and various ministries in the Edmonton area.  She later served as Director of the Guest Wing at Mount St. Joseph where she was well-loved for her care of the patients and families of many who came from afar for treatment at University Hospital. 

Sister Mary Lois will be remembered for her East Coast warmth and love of fun.  She loved to dance, and even in her last illness lively music set her feet tapping and brought a smile to her face.  She will be especially missed by Georgia, her dear friend and volunteer from the Intergenerational Choir.  Her love of people was evident in everything she did, as she came alive, welcoming and chatting with those who crossed her path.  A woman of prayer, she often encouraged others with her own strong convictions and deep faith. 

All services will be held at the Sisters of St. Joseph Residence, 485 Windermere Road.

Visitation will be on Thursday, November 28, 2:30 – 4:00 and 7:00 -8:00 with a prayer service at 6:30 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, November 29 at 11:00 am, with Father Richard Charrette presiding.

Interment in St. Peter's Cemetery.