IRENE PHILMENA GRAY (WHYMAN)

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IRENE PHILMENA GRAY (nee WHYMAN) It is with great sadness that we announce that Irene Philmena Gray (nee Whyman), beloved wife of Dave Gray, passed peacefully on Saturday, March 2, 2013 at Victoria General Hospital, at age 91, of Winnipeg, Manitoba. Left to cherish Irene's memory are her husband David; son John David Reid and wife Gail of Vancouver; stepson Garry Gray and wife Noel; stepdaughter Colleen Holmes and grandchildren, Kaitlin Mountain of Winnipeg, David Mountain of Vancouver and step-granddaughter Michelle also of Vancouver. She was predeceased by her sisters Betty and Agnes; brother Raymond of England; son Raymond; his wife Mary-Ann; and grandsons, James and Brad. On December 21, 1921 Irene Gray, born in Dormstown, England, attended St. Vincents Convent in London to study business. She served proudly as a Corporal in the British Signal Corps during the Second World War as a teletype operator. In addition, she went to Scotland and took P RT training (instructor's designation) to become a lifeguard in spite of having a childhood disability. In 1946 Irene came to Canada with her then husband Ralph Reid, as a British War Bride, where she remained active in the military reserve with the Royal Canadian Army Service Corps working out of the Minto and McGregor Armories in Winnipeg. She rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant and ultimately was promoted to Captain where she had the distinction of being the first female Commanding Officer of the local Cadet Corp #2479. Irene was particularly proud of her career with the Army and that she was able to serve during England's time of need in the Second World War. Irene was a proud mother of two sons, Raymond and John. She continued serving in the Army Reserve while raising her two young sons. She worked as a real estate agent from 1956 to 1968, was secretary to the Catholic Arch Diocese as well as being involved in many other charities during this time. Many happy years as winter Texans were spent by Irene and husband David along with their many friends. They also enjoyed travelling to Europe, Mexico and the Caribbean. Square dancing was a favourite activity. Irene lead a full and active life and was always first to join in on any social events. Johnnie, as her nickname became, had an infectious laugh and was able to raise the spirits of anyone who had the good fortune of being in the same room. She will be missed by all who have the fondest memories of her and her wonderful personality. In compliance with Irene's wishes, no service will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations in Irene's memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Society of Manitoba, 10 - 120 Donald Street, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4G2. Richard Wojcik, Funeral Director of Wojcik's Funeral Home Crematorium, 204-897-4665, www.wojciksfuneralchapel.com.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 09, 2013