This obituary is protected by copyright by MacCoubrey Funeral Home Limited. Proudly serving Northumberland County in the province of Ontario, Canada. All rights reserved.
It is with immense sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Colleen Lawson (née Blair) on October 8th, 2024, at the age of 84. Born on April 13th, 1940, in Hamilton, Ontario, Colleen took her last breath at Ed's House Hospice in Cobourg, surrounded by love and comfort. She passed on a day that marked the 58th anniversary of her marriage to her beloved husband, Bruce, a testament to their deep and enduring love.
Colleen's life was filled with kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion. She was known to all for her warm heart and thoughtfulness. Colleen had a true gift for making people feel special, often giving the most thoughtful and heartfelt presents to everyone she loved. To her family, she was a beacon of unconditional love—a guiding light that never dimmed. Colleen's compassion wasn't limited to just people; she had a special place in her heart for animals, especially her most precious dog, BJ, who has already crossed the rainbow bridge.
Preceded in joining the Lord by her parents, Samuel and Sarah Blair (née MacIntosh), and her brother Samuel, Colleen's spirit remains alive in the memories of all who knew her.
Colleen was the fiercely protective mother of six children: Robert (Patti), Douglas (Crystal), Joanna, Alexandra (John), Gregory, and Rebecca (Richard). Her pride and joy extended to her ten grandchildren: Michael, Dylan, Megan, Abby, Thomas, Brooke, Grace, Andrew, Ethan, and Patrick, who were all blessed by her endless encouragement and love. She was also a dear sister to Pat and cherished by many brothers, and sisters-in-law, as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Colleen's journey began as a dedicated nurse with the Victorian Order of Nurses before transitioning to the role she held closest to her heart—full-time wife and mother. As the fiercest of "momma bears," she always stood devotedly in her children's corner, ready to cheer them on through every high and low, never letting them forget how deeply they were loved. Her words of comfort and reassurance were like a warm embrace, a reminder that home was always where she was.
The love between Colleen and Bruce was something extraordinary. Over their 58 years of marriage, they showed the world what true partnership looks like. They were each other's best friend, soul mate, and confidant—a love that was evident to all who saw them together. Their bond was unshakeable, and their devotion to each other was a beautiful testament to their life journey.
Mom, your absence leaves an indescribable void in our hearts. We will carry your love with us always, cherishing the memories of your laughter, your touch, and your words of wisdom. We know that you are now watching over us, our guardian angel, as you always were.
The family would like to express our deepest gratitude to the incredible team at Ed's House Hospice. Your kindness, compassion, and tireless dedication to Colleen's care, and the care of her family, were nothing short of miraculous. You are true earth angels, and we will forever be grateful for the love and comfort you provided during her final days.
A funeral service to celebrate Colleen’s life will be held at St. Mary’s Church in Grafton on October 18th at 12 PM, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre or the Order of Oddfellows, Cobourg, in recognition of the incredible care and compassion they showed Colleen in her final days.
Forever in our hearts, Colleen’s love and kindness will live on in all of us she touched. She is missed beyond words.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Order of Oddfellows - Cobourg
My sincere condolences to Bruce and his family on the loss of Colleen.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
Bruce, you and Colleen brightened my day any time I was sent your way. Even when Colleen was having a bad day, those eyes of her's would still sparkle. You both gave joy and kindness to all that you met. God's loving strength and comfort - may these surround you, and your family. Julie
Dear Bruce & Family: We were very sad to hear of your loss. Mere words cannot fill the huge void you are feeling right now. Always remember the fun and happy times you had together with Colleen, your amazing wife, mom and grandma....she will forever be in your hearts. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. Sincere sympathy, Judy (nee Blair) & Earl Robinson
I am thinking of you today Joanna and offering you my heartfelt love and support during such a sad time. Love, Pam.
Our sincerest condolences to the Lawson and Mazzilli families. A donation has been made to Ed's House Northumberland Hospice centre.
Dear Rebecca, our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. We will continue to keep you and your loved ones in our thoughts and prayers. May your mother rest in eternal peace. Much love, Nick and Anna Vukosa
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Ed's House Northumberland Hospice Care Centre
We would like to send our deepest condolences to the Lawson family. Our prayers are with them and all their family members.
My dear friend Rebecca receive my deepest condolences for you and your family for your loss! She is in a better place and from there she is with you and your family for ever! Sending a lot of prayers to you and your family! With love Sergio Marchant.
My dear friend Rebecca receive my deepest condolences for you and your family for your loss! She is in a better place and from there she is with you and your family for ever! Sending a lot of prayers to you and your family! With love Sergio Marchant.
Dearest Rebecca, I am so very sorry for your loss. There is nothing like the pain of losing a parent, no matter what age you are. You are in my thoughts during this most difficult time. Sending lots of prayers and love to you and your family, and hoping that in time you may find comfort in the wonderful memories you shared with your Mom. With love, Heidi
My deepest sympathy and condolences to Bruce and all of Colleen’s family! May memories of the happy times you shared sustain you during this difficult period in your lives!
Dear Bruce - we were very sorry to hear the sad news. Our sincere condolences to you and your family. Bill and Amy Fawcett
Dear Rebecca, I am so sorry for your loss. I know how difficult it is to lose a parent. May you and your family be comforted by the fact that her last days were full of comfort, compassion and care. Sincerely, Virginia
I am saddened to hear that my cousin Colleen has passed away. She was a very special influence on me when I was a young girl. I was awed by her kindness and loving ways. I’ve never forgotten. My condolences to her Family.
Bruce, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Colleen. Thinking of you and your family in this difficult time. Take care, Satie
Bruce, my deepest condolences to you and your family on the passing of Colleen. May your cherished memories help to comfort you during this difficult time. Keeping you in my prayers.
Thank you for always being there for all of us . Thinking of all of you during this heartbreaking journey . Love you all . Tamara
Dear Joanna and Family, Our condolences on the passing of your mom. I know how special she was to you, Jo. Colleen sounded like a wonderful person. May these beautiful memories give you strength in the coming days. You are all in our prayers, Tony and Maureen McLoughlin
My dear Rebecca and the rest of the family. I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with all of you. ??
It was an absolute pleasure looking after Colleen. She will be missed by all of the dialysis nurses. Lots of love to you Bruce xxx
I am very sorry to hear Colleen has passed away! My deepest condolences to you Bruce and your family!! You are all in my thoughts and prayers.