Peacefully in her home, Elmsmere Villa, on April 11, 2022, after a long struggle with Parkinson’s at the age of 95. Widow of and beloved wife of 56 years to the late John Evans, well-known Ottawa portrait photographer. Loving mother to Susan (Andy Langley), and grandmother to Emily (Jamie Haggett). Dear aunt to Betsy and Richard and great aunt to James and Jason Kremmel. She was pre-deceased by her sons; Peter and Rod (Doug Ferland).
Dody was born in Montreal to Marthe Marie Grosjean and William Stanley Watson, becoming a teacher like her father and her older sister, the late “Betty” Watson. Upon her marriage in 1951, she moved to Ottawa, where she and John raised their family. Dody had careers in real estate, financial planning and as her husband’s business partner. Until recent years, their summer cottage at Tenaga, in the Gatineau hills, and their condo in Deerfield Beach, Florida, welcomed friends and family.
Dody was at her husband’s side at many ceremonies at Government House, assisting him with photo equipment and putting subjects at ease. One special occasion she recalled was their summons to 24 Sussex Drive to take the first official photographs of current Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, whom was a few days old at the time.
Dody was an avid gardener, sailor, artisan, excellent cook and enjoyed sharing her talents with all in her circle.
Special thanks to Terry, Jessica and Burley for their loving and compassionate care.
Friends and family are invited to gather at the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood ave. Ottawa on Thursday April 28 after 1 p.m. A Memorial Service will be held in the Sacred Space at 2 p.m. followed by urn interment.
In Memoriam Donations to Parkinson Canada appreciated.
Livre de visiteurs
Bonnie Dowdall
Shirley and Tim Molloy
Sue and family, please accept our condolences on the passing of your Mother.
Wendy and Lorne McIntyre
We loved our time together in Tenaga, many, many happy memories. Our condolences to you Susan and family.
Nancy Jutasi
Sue and family, Dody was such a wonderful and special lady. It was my privilege to get to know her these last few years. We shared a lot of laughs and stories and found we had a number common interests including cottage adventures, cooking and crafting. She will be missed by all of us at Elmsmere Villa. On behalf of all the management and staff, please accept our deepest condolences on your loss.
Rhonda and Dan Walker
You are in our hearts and minds today. I'm sure she will be truly missed.
A lovely lady.