Obituary of Marilyn J. Ashbourne

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Marilyn Jean Ashbourne on November 20, 2021 at St John’s at the age of 92. She was predeceased by husband Gordon, parents Edward and Sarah Anstey, sister Sylvia Blacker, brothers Barry Ross Anstey and Raymond Anstey. She was born in New York City in 1929 and moved with her family to Twillingate, NL as a young child, returning to New York in 1945. In 1952 she married Gordon Ashbourne and returned to Twillingate where she raised her family. Her home in Twillingate became legendary for its welcoming manner and joyous hospitality. Her glorious laughter could calm a raging sea. People could arrive at her home as strangers and leave feeling they were dearest friends and were always eager to return. She was a great promoter of NL and always proudly praised its uniqueness, charm and beauty. Woe to those who said otherwise. She fought back with optimism against the cancer that attacked her body five separate times. She showed that the means to surviving great illnesses is not determination of the will but the belief that a stronger, guiding force will carry you through hard times. She was gracious to the end. To those who knew her she will never be forgotten. Marilyn leaves with fond and loving memories: Children: Wayne ( Dyan) Ashbourne, Peter (Peggy Ashbourne), and Sheila (Peter) Michael; Grandchildren: Terri (Glen), Melanie (Mike), Brian, Shalon (Aaron), Robert and Sam. Great-grandchildren: Isabella, Katie and Greyson; Sisters Loretta May and Barbara Furnari; as well as a circle of nieces, nephews and other relatives and many friends. Keeping with Marilyn's wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be a private interment service.