It is with deep love and sorrow that we announce the passing of Mabel Lehane, who departed this world peacefully on May 10, 2025, in Ajax, Ontario, at the age of 90. She was surrounded by her devoted family and the warmth of love in her final moments.
Born in Columbus, Ontario, on April 24, 1935, Mabel was a lifelong resident of the area and a cherished member of her community. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, John Frederick Lehane, her parents Horace and Lula Searle, her brother Bruce Searle and her son-in-law John Fulford.
Mabel will be forever remembered and deeply missed by her loving daughters Carol Fulford and Susan Shoemaker (Jim), and by her adored grandchildren Micheal Fulford (Hilary), Nicholas Fulford, Megan Shoemaker and Allison Shoemaker. She also leaves behind many friends and her dear sisters-in-laws, brother-in-laws as well as many treasured nieces and nephews across Canada, Ireland and England.
After graduating from Port Perry High School, Mabel began her career in human resources at Duplate before choosing to focus on her family and pursue her passion as a seamstress, running a home-based business for many years. Her skilled hands and attention to detail brought warmth and beauty into everything she created.
Mabel’s faith was central to her life. A devoted member of Columbus Community United Church, she was an active participant in the United Church Women (UCW) and dedicated herself to church life and community service with quiet strength and unwavering generosity.
She was an avid gardener, and the gardens she and John lovingly tended were admired by all. Mabel had many passions—sewing, crafting, travelling, making preserves and photography. Her camera rarely left her side, capturing the joy and beauty in both ordinary and extraordinary moments.
Her heart belonged to the cottage on Moore Lake, a family treasure since 1946. There, at her “sanctuary” in Moore Falls, she spent countless summers swimming, reading by the lake and hosting cherished gatherings with family and friends.
Mabel brought joy to every season, but Christmas held a special place in her heart. Her home sparkled with festive decorations and heartfelt touches that made every holiday special.
Mabel’s legacy is one of love, creativity and devotion — to her family, her faith, her community and the beauty in the everyday. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a family who will miss her dearly and love her always.
Visitation will be held at Barnes Memorial Funeral Home in Brooklin on the evening of Tuesday, May 20th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life will follow on Wednesday, May 21st at 4:30 p.m. at Columbus Community United Church, with additional visitation at the church beginning one hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Columbus Community United Church would be appreciated by the family.
Service Details
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Visitation
WhenTuesday, May 20th, 2025 6:00pm – 8:00pm
LocationBarnes Memorial Funeral HomeAddress5295 Thickson Rd. N.WHITBY, ON L1M 1W9
Memorial Service
WhenWednesday, May 21st, 2025
LocationColumbus Community ChurchAddress3285 Simcoe St. N.Oshawa, ON L1H 0S1
