We Remember
FULTON, Mary (Maisie)
—
Irish eyes are smiling a little less brightly these days. At 90 years of age Mary Jane Armstrong Reilly Fulton died on the morning of January 9, 2016 in Kelowna, British Columbia. Maisie has had an interesting journey from her birth and marriage in Belfast, Northern Ireland to an exploratory immigration to Australia, back to Ireland and eventually settling in Winnipeg. Initially challenged with all that comes with being a working class immigrant family, Maisie and Billy created a strong sense of community and belonging for the family by engaging fully in the Winnipeg Irish Association. Many members of the Association became the substitute aunts, uncles and cousins for their two boys. Maisie and Billy retired to Victoria, BC when their younger son and daughter in law relocated there in 1990. Maisie and Billy once again followed their son and daughter in law to Kelowna in 2004 where they both lived out the remainder of their lives.
Maisie’s son Thomas, daughter (in law) Donna, grandchildren Bryce (wife-Martha), Adam & Alison (partner-Tommy) and the remaining relatives in Ireland, are all experiencing an immense sense of loss. Mom, Grannie, Maisie was a universally lovable little Irish woman with a tremendous ability to surround her family and friends with love and caring. Diminutive in stature but huge in heart, Maisie was undeniably independent, tenacious and resilient. Never one to judge, she was the quiet yet influential matriarch of the Fulton clan. As a Grannie, Maisie has had a profound influence upon her precious grandchildren. Each one of them is stronger in character and conduct because of her presence in their lives. Her legacy will live on through them.
Maisie was predeceased by her sisters Jean and Catherine, her husband of 65 years William (Billy) in 2010 and her son William (Bill), far too soon at the age of 66 years in 2012.
Maisie’s family would like to thank the staff at Three Links Manor (Kelowna) for the wonderful care and attention they provided to Maisie in the last six months of her life. We just cannot adequately express our appreciation for how they have supported our family. In addition, our appreciation is extended to Dr. Jan McIntosh and his staff. Their skilled, kind and compassionate care over the years have provided us with tremendous comfort.
Maisie’s family will have a private celebration of her life in the coming weeks.
May the road rise to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sunshine warm upon your face,
the rain fall soft upon your fields,
and until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
For those wishing to send a condolence, photos or share memories, may do so by scrolling down this page to the area called “Share Your Condolences.”
Thomas & family, I am saddened to hear of your Mom’s passing. Maisie was indeed a much loved member of the Winnipeg Irish Association & an ever present smiling face at Folklorama every year. In 1987 Bill & I bought your parents little place a Lee River & have since build a lovely retirement home there….that spot has given us many years of happiness & wonderful memories. My heart goes out to you in your loss but I hope your many lovely memories will bring you comfort at this difficult time.
Renee
To my dear Fulton Family. What a wonderful tribute to an equally wonderful woman. I remember Maisie as a wee leprechaun of a woman with a zest for life, warm heart, infectious laugh, giving nature and a smile for everyone. Yes, she had a mischievous side as well – a welcome Irish trait for all who knew her, and she loved a good joke. I have many happy memories of both Maisie and Billy and will treasure them always. I continue to make “Maisie Pancakes” to this day. Rest easy dear Maisie – your problems are now over. Love, Cathy
Thomas.
Very deep condolences to you and all of your family on the death of your Mother.
Knowing your Mother ( Maisie ), as one of the first friends,along with your Dad when we arrived in Canada, giving us the support and sense of family to help us overcome the homesickness in leaving Ireland. Maisie with her smiling face as inspiration to all who knew her, her motherly attitude with always a helping hand available if needed.
Very sincerely.
Joyce and Crawford Drennan.