Phyllis Marchand

Phyllis Rosemary Marchand, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully July 16, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication to her family and community. Born on February 28, 1931, in Castor, Alberta, Canada, Phyllis moved to Whalley, British Columbia, at the tender age of four. It was there that she spent her formative years, fondly recalling her high school days when she would walk across the Pattullo Bridge to catch a movie on Saturdays.

Phyllis graduated from St. Paul’s Hospital as a Registered Nurse in 1952, a career she cherished deeply. She married the love of her life, Ray Marchand, in 1955, and the two remained devoted to each other throughout her life. After starting a family, Phyllis paused her nursing career in 1958 but later returned to work part-time in pediatrics at St. Mary’s Hospital in New Westminster for several years.

Phyllis had a zest for life, enjoying home parties, dancing, and music club gatherings. She and Ray traveled extensively to destinations like Reno, Las Vegas, Mexico, Hawaii, Southern California, and enjoyed numerous cruises. Their summers were filled with camping adventures, horseback riding at Watch Lake, BC, and later, blissful days at their cabin in Birch Bay, Washington.

A pillar of her family, Phyllis was the ever-reliable “Uber driver” for her children, chauffeuring them to swimming lessons, baseball games, Brownies meetings, piano and drumming lessons, and various school activities. Her love and support knew no bounds.

Phyllis also dedicated herself to volunteer work, contributing her time and energy to Meals on Wheels, the church auxiliary, school libraries, and offering support to the sick.

She is survived by her husband Ray; her children: Debra Legree (husband Michael), Rick (wife Wendy), Greg (wife Lyndsey), and Grant (wife Tanya); and pre-deceased by her siblings: step-sisters Eileen and Bernice, step-brother Howard, sister Carolle, and brother Jim. She leaves behind ten cherished grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, all of whom will miss her dearly.

Phyllis's life was a testament to her nurturing spirit, boundless energy, and unwavering love for her family and community. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.


A memorial service to celebrate Phyllis's life will be held at St. Michaels Parish, 9387 Holmes St, Burnaby on July 26 at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the BC Cancer Foundation, reflecting her lifelong commitment to helping others.