After the passing of Edward in 1936 and Maud being admitted to a hospital in Stockton, Mary went to live with her half sister Maud Ester and her husband Henry James Jackson on their family property “Breawood”, it was a very hard life for Mary. During the week Mary would stay with Dora Salter (McNeill) so she could attend school. She remained with Maud Ester and Henry (Ma & Pa Jackson) and later moved with them to 10 Linden Street Barraba when they retired. Maud Ester passed away in 1979 and Mary then moved into a small apartment.
Mary’s apartment was beautiful, she loved it, and this was told to us my Leila Jackson a wonderful friend of Mary. Leila was Maud & Henry’s daughter in law. Mary was very popular and had numerous friends; this though didn’t stop her from keeping things to herself. One thing that she kept to herself just a touch too long was the lump she discovered in her breast; it was to Leila she first did mention it too.
Mary wasn’t going to let this Breast Cancer stop her from selling her Avon. As the local Avon lady she made sure her customers were well looked after, even when she was struggling to get around she would get herself by car and park outside the local chemist and catch customers as they went by.
Mary remained a spinster for her entire life, which sadly ended on the 13th August 1981. Mary lost her battle with Cancer, first breast then on to bone.
Coming away from chatting with Leila on the 8th March 2010 in her home was exhilarating, to hear someone speak so fondly of our aunt was beautiful. I describe that day as an episode of “Who do you think you are?” The people we met that day, were so forthcoming with information and I thank them for there help.
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