You’re invited to attend Marie Bensley’s Celebration of Life at 2pm on Sat. March 8th in the NSUC Sanctuary.

With sadness, we announce the passing of Phyllis Marie Bensley (nee Smith) at Lion’s Gate Hospital, Thursday, February 20th, 2025. Survived by her loving husband Jim of 67 years, sons Doug (Linda) and Tom, and daughter Linda, grandchildren Jennifer, David, Marley, Hayden, Chase and Angus, great granddaughter Layla, sisters Lois (Duncan deceased), Colleen (Nelson) and sister-in-law Betty (John deceased) and their families.

Born in Lloydminster, Sask., Marie grew up in Chilliwack, then trained as a nurse at the Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster. Raising their family, Jim & Marie lived in North Vancouver for over 65 years.

She was a person of many interests and always interested in those around her, especially her patients during her nursing career (of which Jim was one!). Gardening was a special love and for several years she was President of the BC Council of Garden Clubs. She was a loyal and active member of the Royal Columbian Hospital School of Nursing Alumnae. Always a willing volunteer within her Unitarian church community, or canvassing her neighbourhood for worthy causes, a best friend said of her, ”she has a heart of gold”.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to a charity of your choice, in memory of Marie, would be greatly appreciated.