Obituary of Daphne Joyce Mayne
Daphne Joyce Mayne (née Cowley)
With heavy hearts, we mark the passing of Daphne Joyce Mayne, who sets out on a new voyage after a full and remarkable life.
She was born in England on October 1, 1926, a place that remained dear to her even after travelling the world. With her sister Olive, they lived through WW2 London bombings, displacement, then happily celebrated VE day. As a young woman she worked for Thomas Cook travel in London, where she met future husband Peter.
Daphne and Peter moved to North Bay in 1957 to manage North Bay’s first travel agency, Keystone Travel. In 1971, they opened their own agency, Mayne Travel, a family travel business to which they devoted themselves and took joy in their efforts.
She embodied leadership roles with a confidence that tended to be reserved for men in that era. She was the first female President of the Chamber of Commerce, served two terms on North Bay City Council, and was a member of the I.O.D.E., Canadian Club, and bridge club of North Bay. She earned a BA at Nipissing U. and taught travel and tourism for Canadore College.
She was an amazing storyteller, and her humour, savvy, and wit were unequivocal. As well as being a world traveller, she also loved gardening, hosting parties and spending time at her lakeside cottage in Crystal Falls.
Predeceased by her husband Peter, daughter Laurel, and sister Olive. Survived by son Chris (Lori), son-in-law Mark, grandchildren Catharine (John), Geoffrey and Carolyn, great-grandson Hugh, and extended family in England.
Heartfelt thanks to past and present staff of Mayne Travel. Sincere thanks to Dr Ng, NBRHC ER and D3 staff for their compassion and care in her final hours. Thank you to the staff at Eastholme, her home for the last several years, for their kindness and care.
Daphne’s family will receive friends at the Martyn Funeral Home on Thursday, April 4th from 4:00 – 7:00 pm. A Memorial Service will be held in the Martyn Funeral Home Chapel on Friday, April 5th at 11:00 am. The Memorial Service will be live Streamed, and the registration link is https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=c82f0724-2c74-4dc6-9b67-a3ceff8f123c
If desired, donation to the Nipissing Serenity Hospice will be gratefully acknowledged as expressions of sympathy.
Rest in peace, God speed.
