Obituary of Mary Anne Dancey

Mary Anne Dancey of Ottawa, Ontario, died peacefully on April 28, 2026.  Born on April 30, 1940 in Chatham, Ontario to Philip and Pauline Courey. Wife of 58 years to James Douglas Dancey. Sister to Dolores, Philip, Gabriel, Kathleen, and Madeline Courey. Loving mother to Harry (Robert Hauer), Janet, David (Kalpana) and Evelyn (Peter Macdonald). Grandmother to Maya and Sonia Dancey, and Sadie and Jasper Macdonald. 

A graduate of St. Mary's Academy in Windsor, Ontario, and the University of Windsor, where she obtained a BA and MA after having become a mother. A wonderful wife, mother, and homemaker, she was an excellent chef of all cuisines, baker of perfect pie crusts, seamstress, knitter, avid gardener, and later in life mastered stained glass. She was an active volunteer for the Museum of Nature, Ottawa Public Library and Bytown Museum where she served on the Board. She became the head of the volunteer program of the Museum of Nature, developing student education programs and authoring a children's book on dinosaurs. As she slowed down she continued to enjoy articles and shows about diverse topics from biological wonders to restoration and home repairs.

Her Catholic faith and love of family and friends were evident in all she did. She taught her children to live with integrity and to use their gifts to help others. She had  a lifelong passion for the arts, crafts, literature, music and puzzles. She was passionate in her support of others, particularly children. Her wry humour and stoicism enabled her to face life's challenges and savour its blessings, big and small. She will be greatly missed and continue to inspire us all.

A Celebration of Life will be arranged at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Make A Wish Canada or Operation Smile.