DEEHAN, Mary “Elaine” Deehan

It is with deep love and broken hearts that we announce the passing of Mary “Elaine” Deehan (née McCarthy), a woman of tremendous strength, unwavering faith, and boundless love for her family. Elaine passed away peacefully at 78 years of age on April 30, 2026, surrounded by the family she cherished so deeply.

Elaine was the beloved wife of Gary, with whom she shared 59 years of marriage. Beautiful and devoted mother of Lana (Grant) Bergeron, the late Kelly (1972), Don (Amy), Joe (Sherry Renaud), and Bill (Carrie). Her greatest joy was being “Nan” to Liam (Julianna), Brielle (fiancée Will), Kellene (Nick Kwiatkowski), Nolan, Colin, Lainey, Emmett, Owen, Emma, and Knox.

Born to the late Emmett and late Mary McCarthy, Elaine carried forward the values of family, resilience, and faith throughout her life. Treasured sister “Lud” of the late Moreen and Larry (Elizabeth) Donald, Dick McCarthy, late Bob McCarthy (Carolyn), Maggie McGuire (Tim), late Tom McCarthy, Dan McCarthy (Lori), late Chris McCarthy (Kathy) and Kerry Kovac.

She was also the cherished daughter-in-law of the late Theodore and Rita Deehan. Elaine was a dear sister-in-law of Roy Deehan (Donna), late Sal Gignac (Paul), late Mike Deehan (late Gloria), Bryan (Dougall) Deehan, late Pat Deehan, John Deehan (Jann), and Tom Deehan (Carolyn). Much loved “Aunt Lainey” to many nieces and nephews.

Elaine was a friend to many, known for quietly lighting candles in prayer for those in need. Deeply devoted to her faith, she cherished her years at the Holy Family Retreat House in Oxley, where she found purpose and community. She also held a special love for nature-especially the songbirds she faithfully fed from her back porch. And whenever there was a celebration, Elaine was often the first to the dance floor, bringing joy with her. Her warm smile and steady compassion will be deeply missed.

A special thank you to the staff of Seasons Retirement Home- Amherstburg and Erie Shores Hospice for your care and compassion given to Elaine. Also to Dr. Elfiki, Dr. Bergeron, Dr. Valcke, Andrew, Kateri, Julie, Shannon, Ron and Katie.

Visitation will take place at Reid Funeral Home, 87 Maidstone Ave. E, Essex (519-776-4233), on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, from 1-4 & 6-8 p.m. Parish prayers at 3 p.m. Visitation will continue at St. Mary’s Parish, 12048 County Road 34, Maidstone on Wednesday May 6, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. until time of Mass of the Resurrection at 12:30 p.m. Interment to follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery. In memory of Elaine, donations may be made to Erie Shores Hospice or the Alzheimer Society. Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared at www.reidfuneralhome.ca