MaryEllen Keeton Gallagher was born June 2, 1948, to William and Teresa Keeton, in the beautiful riverfront town of Paris, Ontario.

MaryEllen's ancestors were original settlers of Eastern Canada, pioneers of Western Canada, and her lineage extends to settlers from both the Mayflower and of Jamestown Colony. She took pride in her ancestry and heritage, holding both Canadian and American citizenship.

MaryEllen carried herself with beauty, dignity, and grace. She was a lady in every sense of the word. Missie was an explorer of the world, spending her life traveling with her beloved husband Ed, together climbing ancient temples of the world, always seeking to learn. Missie never just saw a place, she experienced it. How fortunate she was to see the beauty in everything.

Missie's life was dedicated to her family and her insatiable appetite for understanding the world around her. Mary was a lifelong student of mindfulness, meditation, and yoga, a dedicated lover of life, and a child of God. She was a beacon of light in the world, spreading her wisdom and grace to all she met. She was loved by many friends and family across the world.

After a long illness, MaryEllen went peacefully to join God at 2:06am on December 23. It was a beautiful night to become a star in her family cluster.  At her side were her devoted husband Ed, niece Maureen, and daughter Bridget, surrounding her in love. She joins her mom and dad, beloved brothers Patrick and Terrance, and is undoubtedly having tea with Aunt Mae.

Left to carry on her goodness in the world are husband Edward, daughter Bridget, grandchildren Emilyn Grace, Piper Lou, and Grady Edward; cherished niece Kimberlie and Nephew William & Jeanne Keeton, Ashleigh, Laya, Alec, Will; her beloved cousins Tom and Rick, Peter and Barry, Norma, Yvonne, Don, and her cherished Aunt Doreen and Uncle Bud, as well as many others, including her second daughters, Georgette and Aliana, and friends Lucie, Sue Sherrie, and Sal & Jamie.

Mum's favorite quote was,

"Follow your Bliss" by Joseph Campbell

Our family encourages all to do the same.

In lieu of flowers, be good to one another - that's all she would want for the world.

Rest well, sweet Mary.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.