Marie Diane Purcer (nee Edwards) passed away at the Caressant Care Nursing Home, Courtland, Ontario on Saturday, August 25th, 2012 in her 78th year. Beloved wife of the late Rev. George Purcer (1984). Loving mother of Rose Ravin (Guy) of Tillsonburg, Chris Thompson (Brian) of Simcoe, Doris Ashton (Dave) of Tillsonburg, Ray Purcer (Brenda) of Nixon and Patty Smith (Terry) of Bloomsburg. Cherished grandmother & great grandmother of Jillian, her child Alexander; Jennifer (Josh), their son Jack; Tiffany (Luke), their children Brooklynn & Logan; Doug (Melissa), their children Kaitlyn & Colton; Jeremy; the late Greg (2011); Raelynn; Kayla (friend Dan) and Miranda.

Marie was born in St. Catharines, Ontario on January 21, 1935 and was the only child of William and Pheobe Edwards. She married George Purcer in 1954. George and Marie had five children, Rose, Chris, Doris, Ray and Patty. Marie was involved in the St. Catharines Free Methodist Church (now Grapeview) from 1964 to 1970.

George and Marie moved to Simcoe, Ontario in 1970, leaving behind all her family in order to minister at the Simcoe Free Methodist Church (now Cedar Street Community Church). While there, Marie served as Treasurer, Official Board member, taught Sunday school and CYC, sang in the choir, and was involved with the Women’s Missionary Society. Marie also worked at Maple Grove Christian Retreat Centre in Thamesford, Ontario for many years. While living in Simcoe she worked part time at Woolworth’s.

George and Marie moved to Alberta to do ministry in 1982. They moved back to Simcoe in 1984 when George came back due to illness. Marie was widowed in 1984. Later Marie moved to Tillsonburg, Ontario and became involved at Open Arms Free Methodist Church in Tillsonburg as Board member, Treasurer and member of the worship team.

Marie traveled many miles on the back of George’s motorcycle. She loved to knit making numerous items for grandchildren as well as knitting for the needy. She was always willing to help her children and grandchildren whenever she could including babysitting the great grandchildren. Marie loved cats and cared for many strays.

Marie’s funeral service was held on August 28, 2012 with Rev. Doug Dawson officiating. Interment of Ashes as Oakwood Cemetery, Simcoe.