Marion Jean May, 64, of Ottawa, Ontario passed away on July 31, 2025. She was born in Lachine, Quebec, on September 14, 1960, to George and Barbara May. She graduated from Glebe High School and Humber College and went on to advance in careers as a writer, artist and teacher.
Marion used her gift for writing in many capacities: as a journalist with the St. John’s Daily News, an editor and writer for the National Research Council, a food columnist and as founding member of the Barrhaven Writing Circle. In addition to her writing, she excelled in running and completed multiple half marathons. She was an accomplished watercolour painter and artist in multiple mediums.
Marion was a passionate advocate for youth literacy and devoted much of her time to volunteering with children with reading difficulties. The difference she made in those children’s lives was one of Marion’s proudest accomplishments.
Marion had many talents but her ability to listen and support others set her apart. When someone spoke to her, they knew they had her “full” attention. This quality gave Marion many long lasting and sincere friendships. Her generosity and kindness cannot be understated. It gave Marion so much pleasure in doing nice things for others.
A celebration of life will be held on August 18, 2025, at 1PM, at 280 Beechwood Avenue. Guests are encouraged to wear colourful attire. After hearing from Marion's loved ones, guests will be invited to a reception to share memories and stories about Marion while engaging with some of her favourite arts.
Marion is survived by her husband, Richard Charles Dobson and daughter, Lydia Madeleine Dobson and sisters Ruth Park (May), Heather May and brothers Frederick, Ross and Richard. She is predeceased by George and Barbara May.
Marion’s generosity, creativity and strength will be remembered dearly.
Digital Guestbook
Roslen Kenny
Matthew Kenny
Rick and Lydia,
My thoughts are with you both during this difficult time. I have so many wonderful memories of you and Marion from your visits to Newfoundland. Those times, filled with laughter and warmth, hold a special place in my heart.
My warmest condolences to Rick and Lydia.
Susan & Dave Merritt
Dear Lydia, we were so sad to learn of your dear mom’s passing. Our hearts are with you during this difficult time.
Lauren & Josh
By all accounts, an angel on earth. Holding you in our hearts, Lydia & family.
Susan cameron
I was so shocked to hear the passing of Marion. My condolences to Rick and his daughter. For those times that I met her she was very sweet and lovely. What a shame to be gone so young
Debbie and Don Williams
So sorry to read this today. Broken hearted for you both Rick, Lydia and your families. Glad we got to see you both last summer. She was still as sweet as ever. Spread your wings sweet Marion. Rest easy.
Christina Lamothe
I am so sorry for your family's great loss. Karen shared some of your story and I feel certain your wife was comforted by you and your daughter's presence, along with the entire family who , helped bore the load. Grief is a process may you journey and dance with it present some surprising moments to lighten the pain of your loss. Take care.
Hilary Robinson
As others have said, Marion really was a beautiful soul inside and out, and the kindest most generous person I have ever met. We became bonded over our love for writing, but that soon grew to include our love for children and people in general. We realized that our values and philosophy about life, and our role in it, were identical, and that realization only made the bond stronger. We shared the same sense of humour too, and her absence will leave a huge hole in my life. I am so grateful to have had her in my life.
David and Vera Dobson and family
Marion will be greatly missed by the Dobson family.
She was a true gem whose sense of humour and generosity will live on.
Her determination and grit to move forward despite the circumstance will help to guide us in our grief.
Our deepest sympathies to Rick and Lydia and all of Marion's extended family.
David and Vera Dobson and family
Marion will be greatly missed by the Dobson family. Her generosity and sense of humour will be long remembered. Marion's determination and grit to move forward despite the circumstance will help to guide us in our mourning.
Our deepest sympathies to Rick and Lydia and her extended family
So sorry Rick, Lydia and family for your loss. Marion was a beautiful soul inside and out. I have many memorable moments with her here in Newfoundland and Ottawa. Her talents, generosity, thoughtfulness and kindness was abundant and felt within moments of meeting her. She will be deeply missed and my heart is breaking for your loss Rick and Lydia. Love and hugs to you both. Roslen, Kris & Matthew xoxo