It is with great sadness that the family of Lois Valerie Garrity announce her unexpected passing on, Thursday, August 1, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Hospital.
Born on April 24, 1935 at McKellar General Hospital, to Florence and Herbert Cook, Lois spent her early years in Stanley before moving to Highway 61 in 1940, the present site of the Pioneer Village OPHP.
Lois began singing at the age of 9 and performed at many local events, fairs and festivals. In later years, she had the opportunity to work with various local bands and made appearances both on local and national TV, including the Tommy Hunter Show. With the support of good friends in the local music scene, Lois produced several albums of her own compositions, one of which was featured on Kasey Kasem’s Top 40 Countdown.
For many years Lois was involved in her husband John’s business, first Garrity Trucking and later Garrity Auto Service on Hwy 61. She was also a member of the Riverview Raceways Ladies Auxiliary for many years.
In her later years, Lois was employed at the Paipoonge Museum, becoming the curator in 1996. She served as Manager/Curator of the Founders Museum and The Duke Hunt Museum, now known as Oliver Paipoonge Heritage Park, until her retirement in September 2023.
Lois was married in 1956 to John Garrity and is survived by son, Patrick and wife Michele (Greer); grandson, John (Venessa); granddaughter, Carrianne (Rory); great-grandsons; Arthur and Patrick; brother-in-law, Terry (Corrine) Garrity; nieces and nephews, Tracey Cook, Erin Cook (Regan) of Nanaimo B.C., Joe and Jeff (Nichole) Cook, Glen (Laurie) Garrity, and Colleen Garrity. Many cousins and other extended relatives also survive.
She was predeceased by her husband, John Garrity; her parents, Herbert and Florence; brothers, Marvin and Wayne; and sisters-in-law, Betty and Lee.
The family would like to extend their sincerest thanks to the team on 4 North at St. Joseph’s Hospital, especially Dr. Migay, Holly, Ryan, Theresa, Deborah, and Dana for making Lois’s last days as comfortable as possible.
Cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00pm to 4:00pm on Friday, August 30, 2024 at the Oliver Paipoonge Heritage Park/Founders Museum – 3190 Hwy 61, Slate River Valley, ON.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
