Obituary of Verna Southgate

Verna Louise Southgate was born in Chatham, on April 9, 1960 to her delighted parents, Robert (1975) and Laura (Lewis) Southgate (2011). She peacefully passed away on May 11, 2021 at the age of 61 years at Riverview Gardens in Chatham.

Survived by the apple of her eye, her son, Tim Southgate of Chatham. Also, her Aunt Gail Unsworth of Dresden and Gail's daughters, Dawn Manning of Tupperville and Beth Unsworth of Dresden. Survived by several extended Southgate family members who fondly recall a shared, fun, simple childhood at the farmhouse just outside Dresden on Kent Bridge Road.

After Bob passed away, Verna and Laura moved to Chatham, where Tim was born. The thrill of his arrival was unparalleled. With little, Verna made much and in her advocacy and standing strong for Tim, she effected many children for many years to come, and gave him his best life possible. Even down to her last waning days, he was her focus point and what she was most proud of in her life. Our family will forever be indebted to the kindness and graciousness of layminister, Sue Kelly, who resolutely but kindly chipped away at Verna's tough outer layer to break through and provide real, true, life-giving ministry over many, many years to Verna and Tim.

Verna spent several years in the Continuing Care ward at CKHA. Thanks seems little for all that was done to care for her there. It is fitting that on a week that we recognize the sacrifice of nurses that Verna has been released from the physical body that held her hostage for so long. While "V's" time on 3W at Riverview was cut short, she won't be forgotten soon.

She was honest to a fault, loved a good laugh and shared great repoire with the staff. "Don't take that pen!" Their selfless care, patience and dedication especially over this past month can't be described or appreciated fully.

Fly high, Verna. God has plans for you. As one of her notes said, direct quote from Winnie the Pooh, "If there ever comes a day, we can't be together, keep me in your heart. I'll stay there forever.".

Charitable donations to Community Living of Chatham-Kent.

Friends and relatives may visit at Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home, 156 William St. S. Chatham (519-352-5120) on Thursday May 13, 2021 from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM where sign up is mandatory as well as wearing a mask.

Sign up here for a visitation period www.signup.com/go/YZvoBfr   

A Funeral Service will be held in the chapel of the Funeral Home on Friday with Deacon Steve Cartier officiating.

Cremation will follow.