Audrey Eleaine Garrison (nee Lewis) passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, at Meadowview Villa. Beloved wife of the late Glenn Garrison for 67 years. Loving mother of the late Glenda (Ron) Hutchinson, Dr. Cathryn Laws, John (Susan) and David (Connie). Cherished Nana to Craig (Stephanie), Jill, Jennifer (Dona), Vanessa, Maeghan (Michael), Jesse (Larissa) and Mackenzie (Elizabeth), and Great-Nana to Angel, Brianne, Corgan, Max, Jacob, Kaelan and Quinn. Also survived by her sisters, Wilma Hardick and Gayle (Bob) Dugdale, brother, Robert Lewis (Keely) and sister-in-law, Arlene Lewis. Predeceased by her parents Clarence and Violet (nee Moore) Lewis; brother Clarence, sister Beverley Harris; brother-in-law Lorne Hardick, sisters-in-law Joan (nee Heggart) and Judy (nee Houston); son-in-law Dr. James Laws, daughter-in-law Joan (Peaslee), and granddaughter Miranda Garrison. Missed by many nieces, nephews and cousins. Audrey was the oldest of six children born to Clarence and Violet Lewis. The five-generation Lewis farm that she grew up on, and eventually owned with her husband Glenn, was located on the shore of Lake Huron between Blackwell and Bright’s Grove. During her 96 years, Audrey experienced many incredible personal and societal events that took place within her lifetime. Audrey was a loving, caring wife and mother, sister, aunt, Nana, and great Nana. Her love and dedication to her family, as well as her contribution to her community, will be greatly missed by everyone who was lucky enough to have known her. She was an active member of Blackwell United Church, often singing in the choir, and served her church through the United Church Women. She was well-known for her participation in many church bazaars and church family dinners. Her home-made turkey pies and peanut brittle were always sought-after items at church sales. Audrey spent countless hours over many years helping her husband on the farm and customers came from all over the Sarnia area to buy strawberries, sweet corn and vegetables from the roadside stand. Every year, Audrey and Glenn would host a corn roast, and the invitees always enjoyed great food and conversation at these events. During WWII, Audrey supported the war effort by sending care packages to Canadian soldiers overseas, including her future husband. For many years, Audrey was the head leader of the Blackwell United Church Explorers Group for girls. In subsequent years, Audrey became a devoted Cub Scout leader ("Ran") alongside her husband (“Akela”) and tirelessly helped guide young boys to become strong members of many communities throughout the local area and the country. Later, she worked for the Municipality of Lambton County and was an active member of the PC party. Audrey also dedicated many years of service to fundraising and supporting refugee families during their transition to Canada. She enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing, travelling, knitting, sewing and loved spending time with her family and friends. A special thank you to Landmark Village, Meadowview Villa, David and Connie, Craig and Stephanie, Kim Lewis, Jim and Cathie Fergusson, and Ron Hardick for providing care and support to Audrey and Glenn in their twilight years.
Family and friends will be received on Friday, January 12, 2024, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at SMITH FUNERAL HOME, 1576 London Line, Sarnia. A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 13, 2024 with visitation at 10:00 a.m. at Smith Funeral Home. Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, sympathy may be expressed through donations to St. Joseph’s Hospice, Huron House Boys Home or The Inn of the Good Shepherd (cheques only at the funeral home please).