On Thursday, April 25, 2024, the family, friends, and countless others who were touched by Peggy Goddard's compassion and care were forced to say our earthly goodbyes.
Margaret (Peggy) Goddard (nee Beairsto) was born in Fredericton, New Brunswick, on July 30, 1942, to Walter and Margaret (nee Steeves) Beairsto, in a bustling home that eventually included her five siblings, who remained 5 of her best friends throughout her 82 years: Geraldine (m. Fred d.2022) Falconer, William (m. Margaret Cousens) Beairsto, Fred (m.Dixie Astle) Beairsto, Ellen Beairsto and Perley Beairsto. This incredible group of people gave Peggy many nieces and nephews, and she nurtured relationships with each and every one of them. Peggy was married to Paul Goddard, and the two made their way to London, Ontario, where they raised two children, Stephen (m. Elaine Trites d.2013 & Melissa Simon) and Susan (m. Paul) Bolger. It was in London that she pursued her successful career as a nurse. She embarked on a journey to Western University as a mature student to the esteemed role of valedictorian, earning a BScN, and onwards to achieving her Masters, epitomizing her perseverance, intellect, and lifelong commitment to learning. This accomplishment brought her to McMaster University Medical Centre as a senior staff administrator and then to Sharjah in UAE to teach future nurses. Nursing was not just a career choice for Peggy; it was a passionate devotion that positively impacted countless people, including her patients, their families and her colleagues.
Peggy's love for her family led her to move to Orillia, Ontario, 18 years ago to be closer to her first grandchild. Her retirement was a new chapter brimming with purpose. With fervour, she dedicated herself to aiding others, embodying the essence of lifelong learning, and giving unwavering support to her community. Peggy was a spiritual person who built lasting friendships at Wesley Knox United Church in London, and upon moving to Orillia, she was delighted to find another beautiful community at St. Paul's. She was so fond of the people here, building more lasting friendships.
But her most cherished role that surpassed any career or academic accolades, was being "Nan". With boundless love and tireless devotion, she enriched the lives of her five grandchildren, who adored her beyond measure. Lily Bolger, Owen Bolger, Nell Goddard, Emily Blanchet and Will Simon, Nan's love and appreciation for you all is powerful and will last forever.
This inspirational woman left an indelible mark on the hearts of so many. She was exceptional, she was special, and she was loved. Thank you, Peggy/Mom/Nan, for all you gave while you were here with us.
A visitation and a celebration-of-life service will be held on Friday, May 3, 2024 at St.Paul Centre located at 62 Peter St. N. in Orillia. The visitation is an opportunity to visit with Peggy's friends and family and will be held from 10am-12pm, followed by the celebration-of-life service at 12:30 in St. Paul's sanctuary. The Service will be live-streamed and can be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCTpIDPQACM
If desired, memorial donations to the Sharing Place Food Centre, Orillia would be appreciated. Messages of condolence are welcomed at www.mundellfuneralhome.com