April 22, 2025
Marian D'Avignon (Davies), known fondly as Mom, Mame, Aunt, Mrs. D, Gump, or Gramma, passed away at age 88 on April 22, 2024. She was kind, laughed easily, and was gifted at creating stylish decor and culinary creations.
Born and raised in Chilliwack, Marian was a third-generation British Columbian, descended from early Chilliwack settlers and community leaders. She was a teacher for almost 40 years at Chilliwack public schools and abroad sharing her knowledge of foods and nutrition to generations of students.
Marian travelled extensively in her early 20s soaking up history, language, and cuisine from around the world while teaching in Germany. She shared the magical highlights of her travels such as sharing a hymn sheet with a Jewish and Muslim couple at her side on Christmas Eve in Bethlehem.
A single mother, Marian is survived by her son Greg whom she selflessly raised and lovingly supported, and by her daughter-in-law Anna and their children Matthew and Evan whom she cherished in her role as a grandma.
She is also survived by her brother Gordon (Lynn), Sister-in-Law Judy and many nieces and nephews.
She adored her family, especially her three brothers (predeceased by William and Robert), and the memories of their home at 303 Mary Street, filled with the aroma of Nana's baking and the sound of social gatherings.
She couldn't wait for any holiday to begin, especially Christmas, ensuring family came together to exchange "prizes" and savour dishes like "Sissyassis salad" and "dog do" cookies.
Marian's love of people extended beyond her family to a circle of close friends and acquaintances of all ages and walks of life, maintaining lasting friendships formed in the 1940s at Central Elementary School and the Junior High.
Community was important for Mame who volunteered at the Chilliwack Hospice and the Museum and was the author of three cookbooks for local charity. For decades Mrs. D quietly created a safe place in her classroom before and after school for at-risk and bullied students. She wanted all her "kids" to become the best versions of themselves, by building confidence and expanding their horizons beyond the confines of a textbook.
Through food she taught about life; the importance of proper table etiquette and making a good cup of tea; why curiosity, compassion and learning about other cultures matters; and how everyone's quality of life is better when taking time every day to socialize, share, learn and use cutlery at the dinner table.
Though dementia may have taken her memories, Marian's impact on her friends, family, and community will never be forgotten. She was a kind, generous and resilient woman who will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing, loving and being supported by her.
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