Obituary of Roma Rose Reely

Roma Rose Reely (née Gauthier)

Roma was born to Vina Lafreniere and Roland Gauthier (both predeceased) on July 23, 1937. Her family moved to Blue Water when she was a child, a small village just outside Sarnia where French families lived while working at the former Polymer Corporation. It was there that Roma became a sister, first to Ronald Gauthier (wife Lilliane, sons Pascal (Veronique) and Francis (Stephane), then to Genevieve Lough (husband Jim, sons Marc and Jimmy).

Married to Dave Reely (predeceased 2005) in 1956, Roma gave birth to 3 children; Richard (wife Sandy, son Shane), Robert (predeceased 2018) and Diane Jarvis and her children Kristina Koesling (Jonathan) and Brandon. Great grandmother of 2. Roma also worked while raising her family ‒ first at Eaton's, then in the tax department at Sarnia City Hall for over 30 years.

Roma and Dave often took motorcycle tours across North America with the Lady Luck Motorcycle Riders club, as well as several trips to Europe. She also joined her mom on trips in both Canada and US.

But most of all, Roma loved her family. She doted on her grandchildren, often spoiling them with treats. She always helped her kids, making sure they had what they needed. She would often smile while amid her family's chaos, enjoying each moment.

Roma died June 4, 2024, at Marshall Gowland Manor. The family would like to thank the staff for their care in Roma's last years. Private interment at Our Lady of Mercy Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to the McKenzie & Blundy Funeral Home & Cremation Centre Ltd. (519-344-3131). In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Alzheimer's Society of Sarnia-Lambton.  Messages of condolence and memories may be left at www.mckenzieblundy.com.