Obituary of Sister Isabella Geddes Fyvie

Sister Isabella Geddes Fyvie (Sister Mary William) peacefully went Home to her Loving God on Monday, October 2, 2023, at Ruth Ross Residence in Saint John, NB.

Born on May 18, 1923, in Moosomin, Saskatchewan, she was the only daughter of the late William Fyvie and Margaret (Tosh) Fyvie.

Sr.  Isabell obtained a Saskatchewan Teacher’s Certificate and taught for five and a half years before she entered the Sisters of Charity of the Immaculate Conception in 1948.  She continued her ministry of teaching in Woodstock, NB, for a year.  She returned to the West and taught in Wetaskiwin, Alberta from 1951-1962, and 1969-1972.  During this time, she received her Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta in Edmonton.  Sister also taught at St. Anthony’s School in Vancouver, BC and Schell High in Holdfast, SK.  Returning to New Brunswick, she taught at St. Bernard’s in Moncton until 1979.  Sister Isabell moved to Toronto to care for her mother and brother while volunteering at St. Paul’s Parish, ministering to seniors and the marginalized.

She returned to Saint John in 1995 and resided at St. Vincent's Convent on Cliff Street and later at Ruth Ross Residence where she faithfully continued her ministry with the senior Sisters.

In her education ministry, Isabell provided support and care for the children who needed “a little extra time and attention”.  She especially loved music and regularly offered her talents as an organist.  While quick with a quip, a lively anecdote or observation, Isabell’s kindness and compassion were often quiet and unseen.  She was intensely proud of her rich Scottish heritage, especially about Aberdeen, where her parents were born, and the ancestral castle is located.

Predeceased by her parents William and Margaret (Tosh) Fyvie and brothers Thomson (Tom) James, W. Gordon, and Patrick Ian.

Survived by her brother Edwin Donovan Fyvie (Moose Jaw, SK); nephews Cam Fyvie, William Fyvie and Randy Fyvie; as well as niece Jana Eby.

Visitation at Ruth Ross Residence (105 Burpee Ave.) on Friday, October 6 from 2-4 and 6-8pm.  Vigil at 7pm.  Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, October 7 at 10am (Carmel Chapel).  For those unable to attend, the Mass will be livestreamed and can be viewed by visiting Sister Isabell’s obituary on the Brenan’s website.  Interment to take place in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Saint John, NB.  Arrangements are under the care of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB (506-634-7424).