DAVIS, Josephine

DAVIS, Josephine (Jo) (nee Kowin) - Passed away peacefully after a brief and sudden illness at the age of 82 in Sudbury, Ontario. Beloved mother of Nancy (Hugh), Terry (Doug), and Philip (Suzanne). Proud and loving grandmother to “The Nine“: Cameron, Sam, Sean, Daniel, Devon, Ben, Joe, Kayleigh and Trent. Born in England, Jo crossed the pond in 1952 to Toronto and worked behind the scenes in the nascent broadcasting industry for some years before marrying and going on to raise a family. During that time, she kept an occasional hand in “the business“ as well as contributing her quick mind and tireless energy to many causes including anti- nuclear group “The Voice of Women“ in the early 60's. In later years, environmentalism became a primary focus and while living in Waterloo, she edited the book “Not a Sentimental Journey“ about the decline of the Canadian railway system due in large part to the political favouring of highway transportation over rail. In the early 90's, she moved to Barrie and eventually helped to establish the “Better Barrie Transportation Network“ which aimed to improve the urban environment by diminishing dependence on the automobile and encouraging more effective public transit. Most recently, although failing health prevented her from pursuing further educational goals (her initial reason for moving north), she discovered a loving home at St. Patrick's Parish in Sudbury, creating and overseeing the program “Catholics Returning Home“ with great dedication. Deep and sincere gratitude to the wonderfully kind and professional staff on the 5th floor at Health Sciences North – you all made such a difficult experience easier to navigate. Very special thanks to Father Jim Hutton and the lovely people at St. Pat's for their constant support and encouragement. Funeral mass will be held at St. Patrick's Parish on Saturday, April 28th at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Patrick's Parish or Health Sciences North would be greatly appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to the LOUGHEED FUNERAL HOME. To light a memorial candle, flowers, donations or messages of condolences available on-line at www.lougheed.org