June 25, 2026
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Mary Ethel White (lovingly remembered by many as “Jo”) of Kincardine, surrounded by family, died at the South Bruce Grey Health Centre – Kincardine, Thursday, June 18, 2026, in her 85th year.
Predeceased by her beloved husband, Jeff Byles.
Greatly missed by her stepchildren, Catherine (Grant) Frook, Andrew (Nancy) Byles, Alison Byles (Mike Brindley) and Judith Byles (Andrew Wallace).
Adored grandmother of Tyler (Cate) Frook, Ryan (Jackie) Frook, Jesse Byles, Katie Byles (late), Tony Byles (Candace Phillips), Ian (Victoria) Wallace and Cassandra Wallace (Matt Oliviera). Cherished great-grandmother of Felix Frook, Grace Frook, Hank Frook, Abigail Wallace, Madison Wallace and Noah Wallace.
Loved by her brother, John (Lore) White; and her sister, Margaret White. Fondly remembered by her niece, Karyn Beer, Karyn’s children, Isabella and Owen; and her nephew, David White. Also dearly missed by the extended White, McEwan and Palmer families.
Life-long friend of Joan and Wayne Hartwick.
Predeceased by her parents, John (“Jack”) and Jean White.
Kincardine was home to Mary. She was born at the Kincardine Hospital where she would later begin her long career as a nurse. She went on to work with world-renowned doctors at Toronto General Hospital, Vancouver General Hospital and Women’s College Hospital in Toronto. Her work included time in various operating rooms, even assisting with transplants. Ultimately, after meeting the love of her life, Jeff, she returned home to Kincardine where she continued to serve the community at the Kincardine Hospital and as a lead in the Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) initiative with the VON.
Mary was known for taking life in stride, knowing not to sweat the small stuff. Her level-headed, calm and easy-going nature served her well in life. Regardless of the circumstances, she was always up for telling a good story over a cup of coffee. Her approach to life lives on in those she loved.
The family thanks the staff members at Trillium Court in Kincardine for their care of Mary over the past few years prior to her death. Their care and compassion are deeply appreciated.
A private service will be held at the Anglican Church of the Messiah in Kincardine at a later date, with interment to follow in the Church’s Memorial Garden.
Memorial donations to the Kincardine and Community Health Care Foundation, Anglican Church of the Messiah in Kincardine, or a charity of your choosing would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy. Donations and condolences may be made on-line at www.daveylinklaterfuneralhome.com.
Written ByLiz Dadson is the founder and editor of the Kincardine Record and has been in the news business since 1986.
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