Obituary of Mary Patricia Fleming

From her debut on Kingston’s Gaskin Lion in 1957 Mary Fleming led a fully lived life. Sadly, we announce her passing June 24, 2015 in her 61st year. Much loved friend and wife of David Jackson. Mary will be missed by her beloved sisters Rosanna Parker and Terri Fleming, her nephew, Doug Parker and nieces, Donna Parker, Kat Evans and Heather Ruddell (Dave); five great nephews, by her sister-in-laws; Joanne Fincham (Ron), Marilyn Jackson (Tom) and Karen Wiggins (Tom) and her dear mother-in-law Ethel Jackson. Predeceased by her parents Joseph and Elizabeth “Betty” Fleming and her brother-in-law Wayne Parker. Mary had many dear friends who always enjoyed being with her. As a long time feline lover, she always felt her house was incomplete without a cat. Her ever affectionate Maine Coons now feel her loss. A private interment service for her family will take place at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Kingston.Mary was a Kingston City Councillor from 1988-1997. She advocated and lead council on a diverse range of issues including affordable housing, child care and municipal amalgamation. After she left office, Mary continued to actively follow and advocate for local civic issues.After a long career at the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Care, she retired as the Director of Primary Health Care Reform Branch. Mary was the driving force behind many of Ontario’s primary health care reform efforts over the past decade. She led the creation of primary care programs and initiatives with a steadfast commitment to doing what was right. Her work had a lasting impact as she was quietly mentoring and inspiring many of her colleagues. She did all this while keeping a wicked sense of humour, a strong sense of ethics and an unwavering commitment to public service.Mary was a long time active volunteer, board member or founder of numerous Kingston not-for-profit organizations including the Kingston Public Library, Kingston Co-operative Homes, Lois Miller Co-operative Homes, Cataraqui Co-operative Homes, Something Special Children’s Centre, PIC Press, and Kingston Community House for Self Reliance. She was a strong supporter of the Kingston Memorial Centre, co-operative housing, and numerous social justice issues. Most importantly, Mary maintained a uniqueness seldom seen in people. She stayed true to herself and was not afraid to speak up for what’s right and stick up for those in hardship. Mary’s kindness, demonstrated in ways both small and large, will not soon be forgotten by those it touched.A Memorial Service and Reception in Mary’s memory will take place at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Kingston on Saturday July 18, 2015 at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Social Planning Council of Kingston and District for upcoming speaker series Mary’s Talks, a continuing series of social advocacy talks starting in Fall 2015. Arrangements entrusted to CATARAQUI CEMETERY AND FUNERAL SERVICES.