Mary Isabella MacLean (nee Dugdale)

Mary Isabella MacLean (nee Dugdale) Published July 14, 2026 April 29, 1923 – July 2, 2026 Mary Isabella Dugdale was born on April 29th, 1923, to parents Douglas Albert & Margaret Dugdale in Edinburgh.

Mary Isabella MacLean (nee Dugdale) Published July 14, 2026 April 29, 1923 – July 2, 2026 Mary Isabella Dugdale was born on April 29th, 1923, to parents Douglas Albert & Margaret Dugdale in Edinburgh. She passed away on July 2, 2026, surrounded by family & friends.

She was preceded in death by husband Arthur (Art), brother Douglas and son Neil. Molly is survived by her niece Sandy, her son Alexander (Alex), grandchildren Jessica & Dustin, and great grandson Carter. She was also preceded in death by partner Tony Leslie and survived by her “found family” members Lou, Martin, Sarah, Madison, Mackenzie, Hannah, Penny & Jade.

Mary was better known as Molly for most of her life and it was certainly a life well lived. She was a trailblazer, a spark, a caregiver & a rock among other incredible attributes. Growing up in Edinburgh in the 1920’s & 30’s was not the easiest of times, but Molly learned how to survive while also following her calling to become a nurse.

She graduated from Oxford University in 1942 and completed her training at Radcliff Infirmary before and during the war. Molly moved to Canada in 1949, landing and staying in Toronto for 8 years before continuing to Duncan in 1957. She married Arthur (Art) in 1960 and raised two boys, Alex & Neil, right here in the beautiful Cowichan Valley.

Although life had its share of turmoil, Molly had the most generous spirit. She was adept at making things “work out” as best they ought to and kept her wonderful sense of humour throughout her entire life! You could often catch her knitting, making home crafted beer, doing needlepoint or canning marmalade while listening to her favorite classical music.

To capture over 103 years of Molly’s life in a few short paragraphs is impossible so we would like to leave you with a memory of her giggle, a picture of her laugh, smile & wave as she stood at her doorway to “send you off” with love after a lovely visit. Molly, you made such an amazing difference in this life. You cared for those in need, you loved those you shared your life with...and you were LOVED!

Molly’s family & friends would like to extend our appreciation to the staff at both Sunridge & The Hamlets for their care, kindness and respect over the past few years. Please join us for “A Life to Remember Service” for Molly on July 17th at H.W. Wallace, 2853 Roberts Road, at 1:00pm, led by Reverend Greg Darjes. Followed by a reception of memories, food & follies at Duncan United Church, 246 Ingram Street, from 2pm to 4pm.