Laura May Chamney
With profound sadness, Gordon ‘Bud’ Chamney of Auburn announces the passing of his treasured wife of 67 years, Laura May (née Leatherland). After a hard-working lifetime dedicated to family and community, Mom’s faith now leads her to her next reward.
Also left to mourn her passing are her children Larry (Deb), Paul (Lynda), Lorraine, Doug (Lynn) and Eldon (Elaine). Mom will be greatly missed by her grandchildren Patrick (Wendy), Kathryn (Josh), Alison (Brad), Ryan (Amy), Dan, Justin (Jacquelyn) and Meagan (Jarryd). Mom was also blessed with nine great-grandchildren, Audrey and Theo, Madison and Kaden, Breslyn, Ella and Wren, and Jadyn and Presley.
She also leaves behind her sisters Marie (Wayne) Millian, Joyce (Ernie) Unruh, brother Edgar (Sally) Leatherland and sister-in-law Lois Chamney.
She was predeceased by her parents Alvin and Lillian Leatherland, her in-laws Robert and Clara Chamney and her sister June (Bill) Patterson and Bud’s siblings and their spouses Herman (Margaret), Elwyn (Roberta), Graham (Jean), Stuart and Verna (Ernie) Doerr.
Laura May spent a lifetime in and around the village of Auburn and created a large circle of friends, including her 65-year friendship with Shirley Andrews. Laura May’s family is also thankful for the support and thoughtfulness of neighbours Ken and Heather Morrison, who have made it easier for Mom and Dad to remain independent in their home these last few years.
As a child during the Great Depression and Second World War, Mom knew the value of hard work and the importance of family and community. She enjoyed over 60 years as a member of both the Auburn United Church Women (UCW) and the Auburn Women’s Institute. Mom was a 50-year member and Past Worthy Matron of the Order of the Eastern Star, serving in the Blyth, Clinton and Exeter chapters.
After raising her family and managing the family business, Mom enjoyed the company of family and friends and had many hobbies during retirement. She was happiest with old-time country and western music playing while she created her magnificent quilts. Walking, reading, knitting, music and collecting glassware and ceramics are just a few of the activities about which she was passionate. Family gatherings and dinners, however, were her happiest times, especially during the Christmas season when the joy and sounds of her family and children filled her home. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren will also forever cherish those memories.
Laura May’s family would like to acknowledge the care and compassion received by paramedics, doctors and nurses at the Goderich Alexandra Marine and General Hospital Emergency Department, London’s University Hospital Stroke Unit and, especially, the Huron Hospice Residence. We will be forever grateful for our Minister Susan McIlveen who helped prepare Mom for her next journey.
Cremation has taken place and a celebration of her life and interment of her ashes will be held at Ball’s Cemetery, Auburn when it is safe to do so. In lieu of flowers, please honour Laura May with a donation to the Auburn UCW, the Huron Hospice Residence or the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Arrangements have been entrusted with Falconer Funeral Home, Bluewater Chapel, Goderich.
Messages of condolence for the Chamney family are welcome at www.falconerfuneralhomes.com.