A lifetime resident of the Brinston area, Patsy Ault passed away at Winchester District Memorial Hospital on Thursday, December 5, 2013, following a brief illness. She was 73.
Patsy was born the second of seven children to Byron and Margaret Ault (nee Hargrave). She became a teacher at a young age, and spent most of her teaching career at Dixon’s Corners Public School, where over the years, literally a thousand children passed through her classroom door, including her own children and many of her nieces and nephews.
Patsy was passionate about teaching; tough, but fair, earning the respect of her students, many who now say she was one of their favourite teachers. She shared with her students her love of reading, history and nature. She led the cheerleading squad, public speaking and yearbook. She also taught Sunday school for many years at Hanesville United.
Patsy documented her families in pictures – it was always a walk down memory lane with her, as she cherished the photographs she took and shared them at every family event.
As her family grew up and got married, she welcomed each new addition with open arms; as the great-nieces and nephews appeared, each one received a Gund bear, a memorable tradition for all.
Patsy made every effort to stay in touch with all of her family far and wide; kept track of birthdays and anniversaries, and was instrumental in organizing a summer family reunion every year, as well as a winter gathering in January.
Patsy had many loves…first and foremost was her family: her children, grandchildren, and most recently her great-grandchildren. She was so very proud of all of them and loved them so much.
Over the years she shared with her family her love of painting, photography and playing piano. She never stopped learning!
After retirement, much of Patsy’s time was spent on a new love – genealogy. Researching the Ault family history, she learned so much about her ancestors, and gathered boxes and boxes of invaluable information.
She was instrumental in finding the Ault family’s link to the United Empire Loyalists, and participated for many years in the local chapter. She created family history books, and her thirst for knowledge and love of family history encouraged an interest in genealogy family members.
Patsy loved her gardens, and they were the most beautiful in the neighbourhood – she shared their beauty with her regular group of tea ladies and other visitors; spending time in her yard, listening to the birds, chatting with friends, and enjoying the spectacular flowers.
She also loved Brinston United Church and the people in it. She served on numerous committees over the years, and ensured that every Sunday service in Brinston was followed by coffee and conversation downstairs. For many years she decorated the church for each season.
Patsy made a difference in the lives of many, and she will be fondly remembered by her family and friends.
Patsy is survived by her children Lee Thompson of Hanesville and Cathy Dickson (Rob Hutt) of Cardinal and by her grandchildren Tara Dickson (Kyle Dingwall), Callie Laurin (Matt), Derrick Thompson, Krista Thompson, Jenalee Thompson and great-grandchildren Oliver, Tessa and Reid.
She was the dear sister of Betty Graham (Gordon) of Nepean, Frank Ault (Pat), Wendell Ault (Isobel), Mike Ault (Bev), all of Brinston, Marguerite Ault (Allan Beckstead) of Spencerville and Walter Ault (Tawnya) of Brampton. She is also survived by nieces and nephews.
Friends called at the Marsden and McLaughlin Funeral Home, Williamsburg, on Sunday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Funeral service was held at Brinston United Church on Monday, December 9th at 11 a.m., with Rev. Valerie Vande Wiele officiating. Interment followed at Spruce Haven Cemetery, Brinston.
Pallbearers were Danny Ault, Barney Ault, Bill Ault, Steve Graham, Mike Graham and Kelly Peters.
Donations to Brinston United Church would be gratefully acknowledged by the family. Online condolences may be made at marsdenmclaughlin.com.
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