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A Tribute to Mary "Molly" McVicar O'Hara

Writer's picture: Telma Da SilvaTelma Da Silva

Updated: Jul 31, 2024

Born in August 1919 in the vibrant city of Glasgow, Scotland, Mary "Molly" McVicar O'Hara was the eldest of four siblings. Her early years in Scotland were filled with the sights and sounds of a bustling city, rich with history and culture. At the age of 14, Molly's life took a significant turn when she and her family emigrated to Canada, seeking new opportunities and adventures across the Atlantic.


The journey to Canada marked the beginning of a new chapter in Molly's life. Settling in a new country, she quickly adapted to her surroundings and embraced the challenges that came with it. Her resilience and determination were evident from a young age, qualities that would define her throughout her life.


In Canada, Molly met her first husband, with whom she had two children, Grace and Bill. The family shared many happy moments together, creating a home filled with love and laughter. However, tragedy struck in 1952 when Molly was widowed, a devastating loss that left her to navigate life as a single mother.


Despite the hardship, Molly's strength and unwavering spirit shone through. She focused on raising her children, providing them with a nurturing and supportive environment. Her love for Grace and Bill was boundless, and she dedicated herself to their well-being and future.


Molly had a deep love for singing, a passion that brought joy to her life and those around her. When her first husband passed away, she found solace in her music. To make ends meet, she began singing at bars and restaurants on the weekends in New Toronto. Her beautiful voice captivated audiences, and her performances became a cherished part of the local nightlife. Through her singing, Molly was able to bring in some extra money to support her family, showcasing her resourcefulness and talent.


In addition to her musical talents, Molly was an avid bird watcher and had a large collection of binoculars. She found peace and joy in observing the beauty of nature, and her love for birds was a lifelong passion.


Molly was known for her kindness and integrity. She was never mean and did not like gossip. Her compassionate nature and sense of justice led her to speak up for the "underdogs," which eventually made her a great union leader. Her leadership and advocacy for workers' rights left a lasting impact on those she represented.

In the years that followed, Molly found love again and remarried twice. Her second and third marriages brought new dimensions to her life, including the joy of raising three stepchildren from her last marriage. Molly's family grew, and she embraced her role as a mother and stepmother with open arms, creating a blended family filled with warmth and unity.


Molly's life is a testament to her resilience, love, and ability to adapt to life's changing circumstances. From her early days in Glasgow to her journey across the ocean and the challenges she faced in Canada, she remained a pillar of strength for her family. Her legacy lives on through her daughter Grace, her stepchildren, and her fourteen grandchildren, who carry forward the values and love she instilled in them.


The last decade of Molly's life was marked by a courageous battle with Alzheimer's, which she ultimately succumbed to on June 10th, 2006, at the age of 87. Despite the challenges of her illness, her spirit and love continued to shine through to the end.


As we pay tribute to Mary "Molly" McVicar O'Hara, we remember her as a loving mother, a devoted wife, a passionate bird watcher, a talented singer, and a resilient woman who faced life's adversities with grace and courage. Her story is one of perseverance, love, and the enduring spirit of a remarkable woman. Her voice, once a beacon of hope and joy in New Toronto, continues to echo in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Her grandson, Dave Price, co-founder of Molly's Club, carries forward her legacy, ensuring that the values and spirit of Molly O'Hara live on.




 

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