SECORD , Miriam Christina Secord

In true gratitude for a wonderful and long life, we sadly announce the peaceful passing of Miriam Christina Secord, (Anderson) RN on July 21, 2025 at Woods Park Retirement Home in Barrie. Shortly after celebrating her 100th birthday, Miriam had moved north to live out her last days with her family close by and enjoyed the incredible care for 3 months after convalescing from a stroke for 6 weeks in Chatham Kent Health Alliance.

A longtime resident and friend to many in Merlin, she enjoyed the community where she and her husband ran the Secord-Jones (later Secord-Parker) Funeral Home and furniture store. Ten years ago, she moved into the St. Andrew’s Terrace (and later the attached residence) in Chatham. We thank them for the years of care and support. It was during this time that Miriam built a loving relationship with Holly Mifflin as her incredible friend and dedicated caregiver. We are forever grateful for her kindness.

Miriam met William Gibson Secord in high school. After he served in the Navy and graduated with his funeral license, and she with her nursing diploma, they married in 1949 and started their life together in Merlin a year later. Only daughter Lyndee (Stephen Gariepy) was born in 1951. Miriam was the proud grandmother and great-grandmother of Megan Gariepy-Barkwill (Brent), their children Tyler and Zoe Barkwill, and Mikael Gariepy (Diane Abreu Gariepy) and their children Rachel and Liam Gariepy. Sadly, William passed in 1981.

Miriam Secord was born in Howard Township on January 9, 1925 to Arthur and Ethel (Duddy) Anderson. One of seven siblings, she is survived by her youngest brother Lawrence (Glenda, Deceased), her two sisters-in-law Joan Anderson (Gordon, D.), and Shirley Anderson (Douglas, D.). She was predeceased by William and Ruth Anderson, Katherine and Gordon Brisley, and Dorothy and Raymond Berry. Also by her in-laws, Robert and Linda Secord and William and Betty Gray. Many nieces and nephews will remember Aunt Miriam fondly.

Miriam was a gifted and artistic lady. She enjoyed many arts and crafts over the years but was especially known for her ceramics and her paintings. Her art classes at the friendship club were well attended and gave her the greatest joy! It is there that the family would request you make donations in her name:

The Merlin Friendship Club, 13 Erie St SPO Box 281, Merlin, ON N0P 1W0

Cremation has taken place with the assistance of Adams Funeral Home in Barrie. Arrangements for interment at Botany Cemetery will be through the John C. Badder Funeral Home in Thamesville in the fall.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Badder Funeral Homes.