Mary Norma (Reid) Abbott

Passed away 30 October 2020. Born in the midst of the Spanish flu epidemic on 1 June 1920 in Crookston, Ontario to Morley and Gertrude Reid. Youngest sister to Cameron, Evelyn (Carleton), Estella (Flindall), Thelma (Free), and Elwood.  As a premature underweight baby she was incubated in the warming oven of the family wood stove, thus her desire for life was kindled in adversity and she weathered that determination to the end.

Predeceased by her beloved husband Robert Glen of 52 years. She was the proud mother of David Brent (Linda), Robert Reid (Joan), and Richard Glenn (Susan), each of whom graduated from Royal Military College. Cherished and adored grandmother to Kimberly, Peter, Craig, David, Michael, Joel, Rebecca, Christian, Trent and Kyra, great grandmother of 16, and great great grandmother to 2.  Her family was her priority and passion, and she was happiest with them around.

She was a wonderful friend to many, especially the relationships developed while Robert served with the RCAF. She loved to reminisce and laugh heartily over a glass of wine and a hand of bridge.  Norma was caring, loving, dedicated, resilient, and brought non-stop energy to all activities. She was independent, insightful, modest and most of all, kind. She handled adversity with humour, patience, and strength. As her health declined, Richard, Sue and Kyra provided her with constant and loving support which allowed her to live an independent life until a catastrophic fall.

Her caregivers at Starwood Residence provided courageous care in the midst of this terrible Covid pandemic: They are the true heroes.  A celebration of Norma’s life will be organized at a later date. In memory of Norma, in lieu of flowers please donate to The Family Support Group of Extendicare/Starwood or The Dementia Society of Ottawa or the Ottawa Heart Institute Research Corporation or a charity close to your heart.