August 15, 1946- August 27 2024
The journey of a life well-lived cannot be encapsulated in mere paragraphs and even though words can't fully show how we feel, we invite you to join us in remembering this incredible person and how much she meant to so many.
Dear Remarkable Woman
As we reflect on your life, we are filled with deep gratitude and admiration. You were born in San Giovanni in Fiore, Italy, to your loving parents, Giovanni and Maria Lucente (Demarco) along with many beloved sisters and brothers. At just 12, you bravely took a month-long boat journey to Canada with your family to start a new life. You quickly taught yourself English by devouring “Readers Digest” so you could continue your life-long thirst for learning.
You accomplished so much in your life, graduating from University and Teachers College, and pursuing your Master’s Degree all whilst working full-time and raising four children. Through it all, you remained dedicated to your family, pouring your heart and soul into making a loving, nurturing home. The steadfast commitment to education and your children's well-being was truly inspiring. They will forever be grateful for the sacrifices you made. Resilience, selflessness and the power of a mother's love to overcome any obstacle will remain your legacy.
As the Executive Director of Women In Crisis, you were mentor, leader, advocate and trailblazer. Your passion was to empower women and wow did you ever meet that goal by helping thousands of woman and children escape violence and begin new lives. Working with the local community and surrounding indigenous communities, as well volunteering on countless boards led to many honours and awards. Chatelaine recognized your grassroots advocacy when they chose you as the top 12 of “Who’s Who of Canadian Women” for that year. You declined their offer to fly you to Toronto as part of a ceremony with national media coverage. Although honoured, you said “it was never about that.”
Then came your great love, Abbie Carricato. Who would’ve guessed he’d come in the form of a hockey coach. Opposites attracted! You spent 34 wonderful years together. While you loved books and politics, Abbie preferred golf and hockey. Somehow that worked for you as a couple. It was sweet how you doted on each other. You made him pasta fagioli and he brought your favourite treats. As a couple you both enjoyed family, pets, great meals and a good teasing and laughs. Amazingly, Abbie and your very beloved, late brother, Joe Lucente, shared the same grandkids (Mariah and Aaron) so you were able to act as his (Joe’s) surrogate grandparent which was very special. In the later years, you two moved to Niagara to join family and enjoy warmer weather.
The indelible love for your children: Lorne Conway (Cheryl), Liane Conway (Lawrence), Tim Conway and Darcie Conway (Mark) is so deep that it will be felt for the rest of their lives. All the homemade birthday cakes, clothes made, progressive parenting, non-judgemental and unwavering support and love. Even their friends adored you. As a co-parent to their father, Steve Conway, you embodied the true meaning of “putting your kids first” ensuring they were nurtured and supported from every angle.
Throughout your life, you remained deeply connected to your Italian roots, embracing your heritage and passing down traditions. You cooked the most delicious rustic meals with so much extra to send home with everyone. There wasn’t a pot big enough for all your sauce and meatballs. Now your grandkids are making these dishes they once cooked with you.
Speaking of grandkids, one of your favourite roles in life was of Nonna/Grandma/Nana to Kevin (Heidi), Mya, Ava, Tillybelle, Reese, Kyle, Abby, Daniel and James. Your heart glowed with your great-grandkids Jet, Brixton and Laken. Their cheeks will forever be imprinted with your big kisses. Your optimism about the next generation had you believing wholeheartedly in their ability to shape a better world.
Many special loved ones such as nieces, nephews and friends will forever carry the invaluable insights you shared through your lifelong dedication to reading, exploring spirituality and personal growth. They will cherish the profound wisdom you so generously and graciously shared with them.
Throughout your illness, you faced each challenge with grace and resilience. Your radiant smile shone brightly even in the face of pain. When others expressed their sympathy, you compassionately reminded them that you were not alone in your struggle. An infectious laugh and your mischievous jokes got everyone through. Your strength gave hope when there were no guarantees. You became the hospital floor’s “Honorary Grandma” and the nurses continued to visit you even when you returned home.
Your energy was extra radiant the months before your passing, you woke up every morning with a heart filled with gratitude and enthusiasm for the beauty that surrounded you in your home. The cheery birds at the feeders, the sun kissing your forehead through the big windows, the cuddles from your sweet dog, Cammie, and the laughter of your grandchildren – these were the sources of your healing, your own little oasis in the midst of life's uncertainties.
You are the heartbeat of our family and that will never change. Just by walking into a room your energy was so big and warm that it felt like a hug to all. You made everyone feel cherished, valued and empowered to be their best selves. Because you believed everyone had that innate right.
Though you are no longer with us physically, your vibrant energy and spirit will continue to guide us. We will strive to honour your legacy by living our lives with the same strength, elegance and gratitude.
Your love and compassion made the world a brighter place. Thank you.
“Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light.”
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the hospital staff and nurses on 5A, 5B at NHS-St. Catharines Site. Special thank you to Dr. Kancherla and her surgical team for the exceptional level of care. Thank you to Dr. Wasserman, Dr. Cuthbert and the Oncology team on 3B and to Dr. Brick for his advocacy in the ER. We would also like to express our gratitude to Dr. Bassey and for the wonderful care provided by the Paramed and SE Homecare Nurses and PSW’s.
Memorial contributions to the Women In Crisis Center in Sault Ste. Marie would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. https://donate.mytributegift.org/?cid=8090aaf7fc56f0889318c06839fddc9944fe8cfbcb4b2299102959a515414d11&fh=FRP-308918&fp=3089186b5c6c0632d102cc0b9fbb841d8e
Arrangements entrusted to Considerate Cremation & Burial Services, 26 Nihan Drive, St. Catharines (between Lake Street & Scott Street), 289-362-1144. Online condolences may be made at CCBSCares.ca