Mary Williams (née Abbey), a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and cherished member of her community, died peacefully on October 28, 2026, at Shuswap Lake General Hospital following a short illness. She was 98 years old, having celebrated her birthday just four days before her passing.

Born on October 24, 1928, in Arcola, Saskatchewan, Mary lived a remarkable life spanning nearly a century. She was remembered for her love of family, music, dancing, reading, travel, hospitality and community service. Her kindness and welcoming nature touched the lives of people from different backgrounds and generations.

Her passing leaves behind a large family and many friends who will deeply miss her presence.

Early Life and Education

Mary was born in Arcola, Saskatchewan, on October 24, 1928. In 1930, when she was still a young child, her family relocated to Reston, Manitoba, where they operated Abbey’s Red and White grocery store.

Growing up in the community helped shape Mary’s appreciation for people and everyday connections. She later pursued a career in education, enrolling at Manitoba Teachers’ College in 1947. There, she earned a teaching permit and spent several years working as a teacher.

Her early experience in education was an important part of her life before she eventually devoted herself to raising a family.

Marriage to Lawrence Williams and Family Life

Mary met Lawrence Williams at a dance in Reston, Manitoba. Their relationship developed into a lifelong partnership, and the couple married on December 24, 1948.

Together, they built a family and welcomed four children over the following years. Their first child, Keir, was born in February 1950. Their daughter Kerry followed three years later, then Rhonda in 1958 and Gwennyth in 1965.

As Lawrence pursued his career with Federated Co-op, the family moved between Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta. These years brought new experiences and communities while Mary focused on raising their children and supporting the family.

Their marriage lasted nearly 78 years, marked by shared adventures, family memories and a lasting love of dancing.

Building a Family Business in Salmon Arm

In 1969, Mary and Lawrence made a significant decision that would shape their family’s future. During a family vacation, they stopped in Salmon Arm, British Columbia, and became interested in the opportunity to settle there.

They purchased a restaurant and moved their family from Wetaskiwin, Alberta, to Salmon Arm, where they opened El Dees.

The restaurant became a familiar local destination, particularly known for its homemade Calypso sauce. It attracted both residents and travellers, helping establish the family’s place in the community.

After the couple eventually sold El Dees, Mary continued working in the local area. She worked at a jewellery store, managed a KFC restaurant and cooked at several other local establishments.

Her working life reflected her adaptability and willingness to embrace new opportunities.

Life in Blind Bay and Return to Salmon Arm

In 1976, Mary and Lawrence moved to Blind Bay, where they enjoyed life near the lake.

They developed a love for gardening, growing flowers that often caught the attention of people passing their property. Their home became a place where they could enjoy the natural beauty of the Shuswap region and welcome friends and visitors.

After 25 years in Blind Bay, the couple returned to Salmon Arm, where they continued living for the remainder of their lives together.

A Lifelong Love of Dancing and Music

One of the defining parts of Mary’s relationship with Lawrence was their shared love of dancing.

Throughout their marriage, the couple enjoyed dancing together, inspiring those who watched them move across dance floors as one. Their connection and enthusiasm for dancing remained a memorable part of their life together.