
Mary Teresa (Maureen) DEVOST (nee Purdon)
Maureen, at 98 years of age passed away peacefully on Thursday March 13th, 2025.
Maureen was born on Dec. 7, 1926 in Powassan ON to the late Kathleen and John Arthur Purdon and was a loving and dedicated wife for over 65 years to the late Donald J. Devost.
Maureen and her husband raised their children in North Bay, Ontario, before moving to B.C. in 1981 to be closer to their oldest daughter, in anticipation of grandchildren.
Maureen was a mother to 6 Children (5 daughters and 1 son):
GAIL, BRIAN (Kim), JOANNE (Trevor), DONNA, CINDY (James) and LYNN (John) and many hands on grandchildren and sweet great grandchildren, who will remember her for her love of crocheting, gardening, reading, painting and card games. The grandkids will continue to share her recipes and remember her quick wit and sharp comebacks, but most of all we all loved her passion for sports, primarily hockey, watching right up to her last evening with her 5 daughters in an exciting game and overtime win……mirroring her own victorious 98 years of devotion to family, friends and community, where she proudly acquired her 50 year pin for volunteer service with the CWL.
Maureen is predeceased by 7 handsome brothers and their wives, along with many adored inlaws and survived by a sister-in-law Monique Purdon (Hachey), as well as her only sister Ann Rainville (North Bay, ON). Ann now holds her sibling’s stories and secrets of their robust lifestyle on the farm and engaging cottage weekends, many crazy family reunions …not to mention that ‘sister trip to Ireland’ and the ‘colourful’ shenanigans the two of them found themselves in.
Maureen will be missed by many loving nieces and nephews of whom she spoke often, and many friends throughout her life, some she hoped to meet again and some were still filling her days with love & laughter.
Maureen’s Catholic faith persevered after her premature birth of weighing only 2lbs 14oz, resulting in her parent’s many prayers. Anticipating her survival, they promised to dress her in the Virgin Mary’s colours of blue and white for the first 7 years of her life. These instilled devotions continued throughout her life as she raised her own family with strong Catholic beliefs, to her final evening reciting the rosary together with her children as she went to sleep that final night.
Surprisingly, blue and white remained her treasured colours in which she lays to rest in today.
Maureen lived in independent living into her 98th year, before spending her last 10 days in
hospice. Thank you to all the gentle staff at Melville Hospice.
In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to Peace Arch Hospice Society
Web site: https://www.peacearchhospice.org/donate-online/ or call 604-531-7484.
Vigil Prayer Service: Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm.
Funeral Mass: Thursday, March 27, 2025 AT 11:00 am.
All services held at St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Church - 20675 87 Avenue, Langley, BC
Interment will be at a later date for immediate family.
March 28th, 2025
Although long since we last spent time together , I fondly remember Aunt Maureen's gentle smile and graciousness , family first always .Visiting in North Bay no matter all the comings and goings in a busy home , she had things in her quiet way smoothly in order , perhaps aided by her experience growing up with seven brothers and beloved sister, whom I know all loved her dearly , as did in laws and the next generation of Devosts, Rainvilles and Purdons. My condolences to my Devost cousins and all your own families . I hope the memory of the radiant love she had for all of you will be comforting . With sympathy , Cameron
.
March 28th, 2025
Dear Cousins and family,
Jeff and I send our heartfelt condolences to you in the loss of your Mom. A woman so filled with love, faith, laughter and strength. She will be in our hearts and know she lives on in each and every one of you. Rest in peace Aunt Maureen and enjoy your reunion with Uncle Don and your family. 💙🙏💙
March 27th, 2025
Thinking of my dear friend today and a lot of other days lately.
We met when I moved into Langley Gardens & quickly became close after my husband passed away, about 5 years ago.
We shared many laughs as tablemates and visited in her suite or mine to share stories, a hockey game and even the occasional glass of wine.
She certainly brightened my days & I hope I did the same for her.
I miss her terribly. Sadly, I didnt feel up to attending her service but read her obituary & many of the tributes. I also took this opportunity to express the impact Maureen had on my life. There is a void at our table and in my heart! Rest in peace, Maureen.
Your friend,
Kathleen Holthe
March 27th, 2025
I remember Mrs. Devost as such a loving and peaceful soul. She was a great mother to all of her 6 children and was always welcoming to all of their friends.
I had many great times at and around the house on Chippewa Street and will cherish those times always.
My thoughts and prayers are with each and every one of you girls and Brian,
I know you will all miss her dearly.
March 25th, 2025
To all my dear Cousins....There are not enough words to say Good-Bye to this truly remarkable, loving, giving Angel....She has passed on all of her wonderful qualities to all her children and grandchildren. I was fortunate enough to grow up intertwined for my entire childhood with Auntie M's Family in North Bay. Lucky enough to have my Momma #2 after I moved to B.C....Thank you for your unconditional love and always having my back. She will never be forgotten. Sending hugs and condolences and know I share in your loss...Love Your Wee Catty...XOXO
March 22nd, 2025
Sweet Matante Maureen. Thank you for all the times you invited me to your house when you made your glazed ham because you knew I loved it! . Thank you for piercing my ears with a bar of soap and a needle. I’m sure I grew 100 times stronger that day lol. Whenever I think of the most beautiful people in the world, I think of you. Rest in peace and I’m sure that God‘s arms were wide open welcoming you Into his kingdom. Lots of love from Debbie.
March 21st, 2025
Sweet Matante Maureen. Thank you for all the times you invited me to your house when you made your glazed ham because you knew I loved it! . Thank you for piercing my ears with a bar of soap and a needle. I’m sure I grew 100 times stronger that day lol. Whenever I think of the most beautiful people in the world, I think of you. Rest in peace and I’m sure that God‘s arms were wide open welcoming you Into his kingdom. Lots of love from Debbie.
March 20th, 2025
My Beautiful Godmother... so many fond memories of your gentle heart and gestures. The Sweetest person I've ever known. So deserving and blessed by your Beautiful Family, your Beautiful love story and Beautiful life. Until we meet again, Matante Maureen. Love, Pammy ✨🌹
March 20th, 2025
To My Devost Cousins,
Marv and I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to you and your families on the passing of your dear Mother.
Aunt Maureen was truly a lovely lady and has left quite a remarkable legacy. She will be missed by all who were blessed to know her.
With love,
Mona
March 19th, 2025
My Beautiful Godmother... so many fond memories of your gentle heart and gestures. The Sweetest person I've ever known. So deserving and blessed by your Beautiful Family, your Beautiful love story and Beautiful life. Until we meet again, Matante Maureen. Love, Pammy ✨🌹
March 19th, 2025
My other mom ❤ I have known this beautiful lady since before I could talk. She treated me like her 7th kid...my whole life.
So many sleepovers, letting us lick the spoon and bowl when she was baking something delicious. She raised 6 amazing humans who all possess her empathic, caring nature. That's why I love them so much 💓
I will miss you Mom M. Love you forever ❤Rest easy beautiful soul 🤍🤍🤍
March 18th, 2025
What a sweet soul and spirit heaven gained! I didn’t get to spend a lot of time with Maureen but when I did she was always so kind and thoughtful. Not surprised as she clearly raised you all with the same thoughtfulness and kindness that comes through from your Mum. She will clearly be missed and I pray the pain and hurt will be replaced with lots of laughter and memories! You are all so blessed and fortunate to have spent all these years with her! Love ❤️ to you all! Rest in peace Maureen!
March 18th, 2025
So much love and so many beautiful memories surrounding her always and in our hearts. I will always keep my Crazy Blanket she crocheted for me and also one for Kennedy many years ago to snuggle in.
Mom Devost left behind a beautiful, strong, close and loving family. Sending you all so much love, hugs and my deepest sympathies and condolences.
Love, Tracy ❤️XOX
March 18th, 2025
Sending condolences and deepest sympathy to Aunt Maureen's family and friends on her passing. We have so many fine memories and appreciate Aunt Maureen's legacy of love and kindness. She was the best of aunts and lived a long life with such a generous heart - we are lucky to have had her in our lives. It is hard to say goodbye but know you are with Uncle Don and the Purdon gang now, and catching up with our mother Pat! Love to all from our family - Colleen, Joachim, Julia, Sonja, Sebastian and Matthias (and all the grandchildren)
March 18th, 2025
I remember Mrs. Devost as such a loving and peaceful soul. She was a great mother to all of her 6 children and was always welcoming to all of their friends.
I had many great times at and around the house on Chippewa Street and will cherish those times always.
My thoughts and prayers are with each and every one of you girls and Brian,
I know you will all miss her dearly.
March 18th, 2025
My Beautiful Godmother... so many fond memories of your gentle heart and gestures. The Sweetest person I've ever known. So deserving and blessed by your Beautiful Family, your Beautiful love story and Beautiful life. Until we meet again, Matante Maureen. Love, Pammy ✨🌹
March 17th, 2025
Missing you the most on this St.Pats day Gram. Your sweet smile and tender love is all I will ever crave. This is something I never prepared myself for now that your gone I find myself wanting that one last tea time or that one last game I just always thought that my Gram was here to stay forever and ever. Was I selfish for wanting you on this earth for life times. There was so much more I wanted to ask like when did you realize gramps was your love life partner, or what was the in thing to do back in the days. There was so much more to have taken from your wisdom, I’m broken my heart I don’t think will be quite the same. The days I want to come and visit will have to be a visit to the grave something I didn’t care to do but will be faced with that exactly. Ugh the pain in our souls Gram now that you’re gone please just promise you’ll watch down on us and lead us to the pot of gold.
March 17th, 2025
My Mom… My Angel,
Thank you for always loving me and constantly being a light in my life. I will cherish the beautiful memories you left behind for us and until the day we meet again I will hold you close to my heart which will yearn for you dearly. I will miss you tomorrow as much as I miss you today, I will love you endlessly, that will never change. Your many teachings never taught me how to live without you Mom, but I will try to be as strong for you as you have been for me and find solace knowing you are resting peacefully in heaven, my angel. Loving you always and forever, Joanne and Trevor xoxo
March 17th, 2025
MOM - Words cannot express how shattered my heart feels. You are my bluebird of happiness & I know you will be a part of everyday and every memory. I will miss you forever here on earth because you are the best human being I have ever known. You faced every day with such optimism. A smile that often hid pain, a sweet voice that never showed anger, generosity when things were sparse, and always an abundance of kindness & love. I pray that I have inherited some of your beautiful traits so that I can shine in your honor. You are Perfection ~ God does that when he creates Angels ♡ I will LOVE you forever Mom
March 17th, 2025
Nana, your warmth was felt in everything you did—from your amazing recipes to the beautiful blankets you lovingly crocheted. Your laughter was comforting, your wisdom a gift, and your kindness truly selfless. The stories you shared are treasures, and the love you gave will remain with us always. Nothing can take away the memories we hold or the lessons you passed down, which will continue to guide me through the many phases of life. I am forever grateful for you. You are deeply loved, always cherished, and never forgotten. I love you, Nana.
Your granddaughter,
Keenya
March 17th, 2025
Dearest Mother,
Please know that your legacy of love and compassion will live on in the hearts of those you have touched... Especially your immediate family. Throughout your life, your inner strength, kindness, and grace knew no bounds.
Mom, I will miss you terribly, but I find solace in knowing that you are now in heaven with the Prince of Peace... Your love will forever guide me.
Your Loving Son - Brian
March 17th, 2025
To my dear cousins,
David and I send our thoughts and prayers to you as you grieve the loss of your amazing mother.
Aunt Maureen was a true example of grace and dignity. As my mom’s only sister, we were blessed to hear the beautiful stories of their childhood. My mom describes her as “the best sister ever, with the kindest heart”.
I hope wonderful memories of her see you through the days ahead, and you find some comfort in knowing how much she was loved by all. We share your grief, and send our love.
Much love,
Patti
March 16th, 2025
To the best Mom on earth and the loveliest of angels in heaven. Your last days on earth were remarkable, you were amazing to the end Mom.
Love your baby Lynn
P.S. say hi to Dad for me!
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