Passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family at Owen Sound Hospital on Friday, December 20th, 2024 in her 98th year. Beloved and devoted wife to John for 62 years. Loving mother to Paul Godward (Michele) of Owen Sound and David Godward (Shirley Ann) of Bolsover.
Pauline was predeceased by parents Savill and Catherine Simpson, husband John, daughter Cathy Lawrence, son-in-law Jeff Lawrence, grandson Andrew Godward, great-granddaughter Lillian Lawrence, and sisters Isabella Dill (Frank) and Ruth Kelly (Stewart).
Pauline will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by grandchildren John Lawrence (Caitlin), Jenni Lawrence (Greg), Thomas Godward, Blake Godward (Abbi), and Joshua Godward (Mayami). She was a loving Great Gramma to Sebastian and Colton, and she will be mourned by several caring nieces and nephews.
She was raised on the farm in southwestern Ontario (Glencoe), and graduated from Victoria Hospital School of Nursing in 1949. Pauly and John moved from London to Orillia in 1961 to raise their family. She was a faithful member of St. James’ Anglican Church. She kept active as a curler and a lawn bowler, and was an avid bridge player throughout her life.
Pauly was a very ‘crafty’ person and had an artistic flair. Her projects included coloured drawings, paintings, and creating beautiful beaded jewellery. Pauly and John spent many happy winters during retirement in North Ft. Myers, Florida and Sidney, British Columbia, and they cruised to various destinations around the world.
The family extends its sincere appreciation for the care and compassion provided by the staff at Owen Sound Gardens Retirement Residence for the last two and a half years. We are also so grateful to Dr. Fenn and the medical staff at the Owen Sound Hospital for seeing mom through the end of her journey.
A celebration of Pauline’s life will be at the Village Centre (a.k.a. the Club House) at 44 Museum Dr., Orillia on Saturday May 24, 2025 from 1-4 P.M. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. James’ Anglican Church of Orillia or Brightshores Health System Owen Sound Foundation.
Arrangements entrusted to Carson Funeral Homes 54 Coldwater St. E Orillia (705) 326-3595.
Condolences
Lori Kittelberg
Jan 7, 2025George and I fondly remember visiting Aunt Pauline and Uncle John the years they spent their winters in Sidney, BC. It struck me that they still held hands, they clearly had a lot of affection for one another. I feel lucky that we were able to connect in those years. We laughed about the silly photos she took with my Grandma (Isabella) and Aunt Ruth during their visits years ago. I'm grateful for the stories she shared about Grandma. May the good memories bring comfort during this difficult time. Sending lots of love. - Lori, George and Malcolm
Dave Twining
Dec 28, 2024Paul, Michele and family. We are very sorry to hear about the passing of your mother and grandmother. May your memories bring comfort during this difficult time. Dave & Donna Twining and family.
Dave knox
Dec 25, 2024Paul and Dave - my deepest condolences to both of you and your families. I remember your mom mostly from the curling rink - she was always so nice.
Rev. Carol Hardie
Dec 24, 2024Pauline was a faithful disciple at St. James'. She attended regularly on Sundays, and actively participated in servant ministry - as a greeter, and welcoming others into our midst; volunteering at Looney Lunch, and other outreach activities; a thoughtful contributor in the congregation, and a loving friend to many. You are remembered with love and gratitude.
Pat D'Agostino
Dec 24, 2024I have so many wonderful memories of days spent at Long Point with Aunt Pauly and family. She always welcomed me when I would travel there to visit with a friend and it was always a blast. Those visits secured my desire and love of living on the waterfront. Warmest hugs to the Godward family.
Paul and Rose Bye
Dec 24, 2024Paul, Michele and family, so sorry to hear of the passing of your Mom. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Sharon Kelly
Dec 23, 2024My aunt Pauly and I shared a special bond. Maybe that bond started when she chose me to be the flower girl at her wedding. As her son Paul commented we had a bit of a Thelma/Louise vibe going on, certainly more like friends than aunt and niece. Some of my favourite memories were the summer visits at Longford Mills. One of our traditions was me calling her a few times in December to sing Blue Christmas. I was in awe of her energy well into her 90’s. She will be deeply missed.
Penny Cann
Dec 23, 2024My deepest condolences to the entire Godward family. I had the pleasure of knowing Pauly at Owen Sound Gardens. She was so very gracious. Everyone is blessed who knew her light.