Sad loss of a very special lady. Mary Scott, Aunty Mary to her numerous nephews and nieces held a very special place in our childhoods. Along with Uncle Gordon this couple were a wonderful constant in our early childhoods. As the eldest Thornton daughter, Aunty Mary replaced our grandmother, as the matriarch of the family. Our large family Christmas gatherings at Hawthorne Road were legionary with masses of family fun and humour. The food that appeared at Christmas and other gatherings was incredible. She was the most amazing cook and incredible organiser. Over the last few years while my mother Eunice had been suffering from Dementia, Mary was a great help to me with her support and wise guidance. Throughout her life she had been there for my mother and her other siblings. She was very concerned at the ongoing suffering my mother was enduring and as Eunice passed away about three hours after Mary, it is a comforting thought to think that they left this world, almost together; and to wonder that if maybe in death as she did in life in life, Mary may have somehow lent a helping hand in allowing my mother to finally pass away in peace.

Our Nan was always the heart of the home. Over the years as she watched our beloved Gordy and Wayne depart, she took on the role as the rock of the family. As she grew older and her bones became more frail, her optimism and gratitude for life grew, as did her love and adoration for her family, and of course her strong friendships. Nan knew that all we really have in life is people, and that relationships are the most important thing to nurture. I will personally miss our talks on the phone, your giggles, that homemade relish and those incredible cakes, but most of all we will miss you being there for every one of us, but we will do our best to keep your legacy alive by appreciation and gratitude for each other. Love, Paula