Milne, Mary Elizabeth
Mary Milne passed away peacefully at the Meaford Hospital on Thursday, June 11, 2026 at the age of 86. Born in Heathcote on March 4, 1940, she was the 3rd child of the late Wesley Albert and Villa Marion (nee Atkins) Reid.
Mary was predeceased by her beloved husband Willard John “Bill’ Milne in 2004. She was the proud mother of Tammy (Larry) Short, Trevor (Kelly) Milne and Troy (Lauren) Milne. She was the kind and loving grandmother of Lauren, Camren, Brayden, Erin, and Shannen, William and Ryan, Abby, Emilia and Charlie.
Mary will be dearly missed by her siblings; Dorothy (late Bill) Elford, Bob (late Marg) Reid, Jean (La Vern) Grummett, Rosemarie Wickens (Harry Stevens), Elaine Reid, sister-in-law Eileen (late Sam) Dinsmore, and will be remembered fondly by many nieces, nephews and their families.
Mary attended Heathcote Public School and Thornbury High School before beginning her teaching career in a one-room schoolhouse at Parrot’s Corners. A lifelong contributor to her family and community, Mary was always ready to lend a hand on the family farm, helping with milking, haying, and chores. She loved participating in community events and was awarded the Grey County Junior Farmers provincial scholarship with a trip to the British Isles in 1966, and was crowned Ontario Dairy Princess in 1967, proudly representing her community at the CNE, and Royal Winter Fair.
Mary enjoyed staying active, playing sports such as baseball, tennis, and skiing, and skating weekly at the Beaver Valley Community Centre
. She and her husband Bill shared a passion for skiing and proudly served together as Ski Patrol members at local resorts.
On August 12, 1967, Mary and Bill Milne married and began their family. She loved being a mother and did a wonderful job balancing family life with her teaching career at Beaver Valley Community School and her many volunteer roles with the Beaver Valley Athletic Association and community.
Mary had a special passion for music, with a beautiful singing voice and was an active member of the Sweet Adelines choir. As a music teacher, she had a remarkable ability to bring out the best in others and help them shine.
Creative and patient, Mary found great joy in sewing and embroidery, and gardening, faithfully tending to her many plants and crafting thoughtful, handmade gifts for family and friends.
Mary cherished time spent supporting her children and grandchildren and spent many hours at arenas and ball fields cheering them on and tracking stats. She was never shy at teaching them a good lesson in cards or scrabble, and loved helping them where possible, particularly Saturday mornings working the Orangeville Farmers’ Market alongside Brayden and his girlfriend, Christina.
Mary had a kind and generous heart and a beautiful smile. She will be enjoying a large bowl of Chocolate Ice Cream with Bill followed by a piece of her Apple Crisp.
Family and friends will gather at a later date to celebrate Mary’s life at a private event.
As your expression of sympathy, donations to the Beaver Valley Outreach or the Meaford Hospital Foundation would be appreciated and may be made through the Ferguson Funeral Home, 48 Boucher St. E., Meaford, ON N4L 1B9 to whom arrangements have been entrusted.
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Donations: Beaver Valley Outreach or the Meaford Hospital FoundationDonate securely through Ferguson Funeral Home
Monday, June 15, 2026
Tammy, Trevor & Troy: We are sad to hear of the passing of your mom. Mary was always eager to help in the community with any event being held. She also enjoyed watching her children & grandchildren in their sporting events. Cherish your memories of a great lady who will be missed in our community.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
So sorry for for your an great gal
Monday, June 15, 2026
Your mother was a great teacher and a very kind person she was my last teacher at Sandhill school she even came to visit me when i had an operation at Sick Children hospital in Toronto may she rest in peace
Monday, June 15, 2026
Sorry to hear of Mary`s passing, both Mary and Bill were good ones and we can`t afford to lose many more of the originals.
Marg and Don Sheridan
Monday, June 15, 2026
So sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. She was always so cheerful and full of life. It was always a pleasure to see her and have a quick chat. May she rest in peace.
Monday, June 15, 2026
I am very saddened to learn of Mary’s passing. I have known Mary for a long time, especially on the ball field. My sincere condolences to her family and friends.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Sorry to hear of Mrs Milne’s passing (yes she will always be Mrs Milne to me)
Sending big hugs Tammy, Trevor and Troy and to your families! The Valley has lost a true icon
Monday, June 15, 2026
Tammy, Trevor, Troy and Families,
Sending our heartfelt sympathy on the loss of your dear mother and loving grandmother. May the many happy memories of your mom live on in your hearts and bring you comfort.
Monday, June 15, 2026
I’m so sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. I enjoyed sitting with her at church and going to bible studies with her. I always admired her faith and will definitely miss her spunk and giggle. Rest in peace friend.
Monday, June 15, 2026
Tammy , Trevor ,Troy
I’m so sorry to hear of Mary’s passing . She was a bright light. I have very fond memories of home economics from school . May you take comfort in your memories and each other during this difficult time .
Katherine Turmaine ( Poirier)
Monday, June 15, 2026
Sorry to hear of Mrs. Milne’s passing she was one of the best teachers we had growing up, she shared a lot of wisdom, knowledge, and caring to all of us growing up. Thank you for that!
Shelly and Dan Harrison and family
Monday, June 15, 2026
The best grade 8 teacher.
Thank you, Miss Reid, for instilling us with those lifetime basics which are missing in today’s lessons.
Monday, June 15, 2026
What a glorious life your mother lived! I have fond memories of both your parents at BVCS. May you be comforted by the shared stories and love that surrounds you during this difficult time. May she rest in peace
Monday, June 15, 2026
Mary was a delight where ever she was and a much appreciated help to my wife in the Sweet Adelines chior all who were privaleged to know have fond memories.
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
Tammy, Trevor, and Troy and to all extended members of the family, my heartfelt condolences. You are in my thoughts and prayers. “Bill” was a teacher of mine and I knew of Mary as a teacher. Both of them consummate teachers, honourable, full of integrity – wonderful role models. I got to know Mary better and more recently as she was a cherished member of the Blue Mountain Community Church. Such a warm smile and caring person. We will certainly miss her. I hope your memories of her will quickly and continuously bring smiles to all your faces.
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
My sincere and heartfelt condolences to Tammy, Trevor, Troy and families in the passing of Mary.
A wonderful woman who positively touched so many lives.
Mary and Bill are now together in heaven.
Cherish the many memories.
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
My deepest condolences to Tammy, Trevor, Troy and families. Mrs. Milne was a wonderful lady!
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
Mary Milne, left her mark on so many of her students, myself included. I can still hear her laugh.
Tammy Trev, & Troy & families,
I am sadden to hear of your mom’s passing but know you will find comfort that she is finally re-united with your Dad.
Please know that I am thinking of you all during this difficult time and hope you will find comfort in how much she was loved in our community and in all your fond memories of her.
Sincerely,
Jody Foster-Scott
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
To Trevor, Kelly, Will, Ryan, Troy and family, Tammy and family,
Please accept our deepest condolences on the loss of your Mom and Grandma. While words can never fully ease the sorrow of losing someone so loved, we hope you find comfort in the many memories you shared and in the love of family and friends surrounding you during this difficult time.
May Mary’s kindness, strength, and the impact she had on those around her continue to live on in your hearts. Thinking of all of you and sending prayers, love, and support as you navigate the days ahead.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Melissa & Marcel
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
Tam, Trev, Troy,
Hugs to you all. So sorry to hear of Mary’s passing, an amazing lady always there to help.
I do remember the chocolate ice cream very well.
She will be greatly missed by all that knew her.
Kelly Mike Blair and Hunter
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
We were greatly saddened to hear of Mary’s passing. We will always remember her wonderful smile and cheerful attitude. She will be sorely missed.
With sincere condolences
Bruce & Donna Whiteside
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
We are so sorry to hear about Mary‘s passing. We’ve known Mary for many years. I first remember her from Sunday school in Heathcote and I still have a little box that she gave me at Christmas exchange. Memories of her and Barbara Green and Doreen Macquarie stay with me from high school days. Thinking of her family and how proud she was of them. She will be deeply missed Garryand Jean Flynn
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
Sincere condolences from Ottawa to Troy and family, plus your siblings and their families. I never knew your parents but my mom, Kathy, spoke very fondly of Bill the year she worked in the BVES office. Your mom sounds like a wonderful lady. May the memories of her keep you smiling.
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
Tammy, Trevor, Troy and families. So sorry to hear of the passing of your mother. She was not only one of my teachers in Ravenna but a family friend. Always enjoyed conversations about your families during our visits & seeing the pictures on her skylight. She enjoyed reminiscing about events that the Beaver Valley Pipe Band had attended with your father. She was a great lady and will be missed. Treasure your memories.
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
I am so sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. My condolences to her entire family. I remember Mary and Bill fondly from my Beaver Valley days. May you cherish the memories of her.
Rosemary Taylor
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Tammy, Trevor, Troy & families – I was so sorry to hear about Mary’s passing. She was a wonderful Mom, teacher, person & friend! I have known her since elementary school when we first met playing ball for our individual schools – Heathcote & the Tenth Line! Then we played together on the ladies ball team during high school! I have so many good memories of Mary throughout my lifetime – playing ball, being at high school together, teaching at the same school, & many more! You were all so important to her & she was so proud of each of you! I know that you will miss her very much but remember all the good times! That will help you get through this difficult time! Hugs to you all, Bonnie Hammond
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Tammy, Trevor, Troy and families
Sorry to hear of your Moms passing
She had an infectious smile and a beautiful personality
I had the privilege of her being my teacher half of grade one at Ravenna school and again in grade three at the Thornbury public school. Definitely one of my favourite teachers
I always appreciated her involvement with the BVAA when my kids started sports
I hope your parents are now dancing in heaven
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
My condolences on the passing of your mother and grandmother. Thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Tammy, Trevor, Troy and Families
Bev and I were very sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. Our sincere condolences and hugs
To you all.
Gary &Beverlee Dillon
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Tammy, Trevor and Troy-
So many memories come to mind as your Mom was talented and always willing to share what she knew as well as what she had, with a smile and happy outlook. I know she is at peace and will be together with your Dad, sending each of you a hug and my sincere condolences.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
My condolences to all Mary’s family.
She lived her life to the fullest and will be missed.
May all your wonderful memories help you through this difficult time.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
My deepest condolences on the loss of one of the most amazing teachers and community members. Mary was always smiling and ready to help in any way she could. She had a special gift for lighting up a room and touched the lives of so many people. She was a true mentor who will be deeply missed.
Thinking of you, Tammy, Trevor, Troy, and your families during this difficult time. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Our deepest condolences to the family on their loss. Mary taught a group of kids to play the flute outside of school time. My son Mark was part of that group. That year the group won first in their category. she went above and beyond opening opportunities for students. Memories are not forgotten.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
My Heartfelt Condolences to your family at this difficult time. I was fortunate to learn in classrooms led by both Mrs. & Mr. Milne in my childhood and remember your parents with great fondness.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
We are sorry to read about Mary’s passing and send our condolences to all the family. Mary was an amazing community supporter and was always up for a friendly chat, never missing asking about our girls & family. Rest in Peace, Mary!
Keith & Barb Dooks
Thursday, June 18, 2026
We are sad to hear of Mary’s death. Our love and prayers are with you all. We have good memories of times spent together.Dennis and Wilda Camplin, Regina ,Sk
Thursday, June 18, 2026
So sorry to hear of Mary’s passing, sincere condolences to all the family. A truly wonderful lady, who touched so many
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Your mom was a longtime friend of my mom’s (Joan Weldrick). After my Dad passed she connected with my mom weekly whether it was a chat on the phone, lunch at you mom’s house on Bat St, country drive or her weekly lunch drop off when mom lived at Errinrung. I am grateful for her kindness and friendship they shared. I hope they are together again in some way. Sending to the family.
Thursday, June 18, 2026
Dear Tammy, Trevor, Troy & Families
Sending our deepest condolences to each of you. We have many memories of your parents as neighbours on Bayview Avenue and as teachers at BVES. Your Mom was so proud of each of you and her grandchildren. I enjoyed meeting her and catching up on all that was happening in your lives. She told me of her recent health issues and I was hoping after the surgery all would be well. She has missed your dad for so many years now and I will take comfort in the thought that they are happy together once again.
Hugs to all.
Sandra & Randy Pyatt
Friday, June 19, 2026
To Troy, Trevor and Tammy, sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing.
Troy, we got to know your mom and dad through your hockey, our trips during summer tournaments, you will all have good memories to treasure.
Laurie and Ken Adams
Friday, June 19, 2026
Sincere condolences to the family. Mary was one of my favourite teachers, patient and kind, teaching us how to play the recorder or use a sewing machine. She was so dedicated to community and sport, always volunteering with the figure skating carnival or BVAA dinners. May her spirit live on in your hearts and cherish the memories you shared. Warm Regards, Kim Collins
Sunday, June 21, 2026
My deepest sympathies and condolences to Tammy, Trevor, Troy and your families. Your mom was always caring and generous to myself and the Graham family. She will be greatly missed by all.
Monday, June 22, 2026
Trev, Tammy, Troy and families:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very sad time.
Love you Mrs. Milne!
Wayne and family
Monday, June 22, 2026
Mary was an amazing teacher and person ❤️ my condolences to all her family and friends she will be greatly missed by all
Tuesday, June 23, 2026
We are so sorry to read of Mary’s passing. Our condolences to her family, and her siblings. Mary was our mother’s cousin, and always kept in touch with Mom. We had a lovely visit with her a few summers back at her beautiful home. She was so very proud of her children and grandchildren. And like our Mom, she was a wonderful teacher! Cherish the memories, we know she will be missed.
Anne and Sandy Hunt, daughters of Marjorie Hunt (Kenny)
Tuesday, June 23, 2026
Tammy, Trevor, Troy, your families, and the Reid family have our deepest sympathy. Have known Mary for a very long time and will miss seeing her from time to time. She loved her family very much and was always telling me about their activities. You will miss her, but you have many memories of wonderful times.
Monday, June 29, 2026
Mrs Milne will be remembered fondly as a kind sole that impacted so much lives with love and knowledge. Condolences from our family to yours.