Obituary of Martha Heywood

Martha Heywood (Thiel) passed away peacefully at Pinecrest Manor in Lucknow on October 17, 2021 in her 98th year after a long life, well lived.  

She was predeceased by her loving husband Earl, parents (William & Olieva Thiel of Zurich, Ontario), one brother (Edward) and two sisters (Verlyn and Gertrude).  She was the devoted mother to her son Grant (Jeanette) Heywood of Wellesley and best friend to her daughter Patricia (Bob) Cook of Kincardine. She was admired by her four granddaughters Kathy (Greg), Jennifer (David), Kianna (Wayne) and Janessa (Ed). Her great-grandchildren Tristan, Blaine (Ally), Hannah, Jacob, Natalie and Charlie were her pride and joy. She will be fondly remembered by many special friends who supported her through her journey. 

Martha was always a gracious lady known for her inviting smile, hearty laugh and an ability to lift others up through caring conversations.  She remained a gentle soul despite the challenges of dementia.  She was a person others aspired to be like. Her love of her family shone through in her baking, sewing and time spent with grandchildren. She lived her life in harmony - singing alongside Earl and was forever the calming voice of reason.  

Martha will be reunited in harmony and song with her husband Earl.  A beautiful song written by Earl comes to mind, ‘There’s An Angel Waiting for Mother’. Also a classic song they always sang together from the ‘Three Generations of the Heywood Family’ album ‘Remember Me’ will forever resonate in all of us who live on in her legacy. Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day.   

Sincere gratitude goes out to the staff of Pinecrest Manor and Ripley R Villa for their care, compassion and companionship. You have been more than caregivers; you have been family.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 22^nd, 2021 at McBurney Funeral Home, Wingham from 11:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Those wishing to attend do not need to register, however please wear a mask and respect physical distancing. A private service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Please click here to view the service. 

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Wingham & District Hospital Foundation (Ladies Auxiliary), Barn Dance Society, the Horticultural Society or St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, would be appreciated.

Online condolences at www.mcburneyfuneralhome.com