It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Cathy Clarey (nee O’Rourke), of Charlottetown, at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital on July 9, 2024 at the age of 75, after a brief illness.

Beloved wife of 52 years and best friend of the late Alva Clarey. Cherished mother of Peter (Olena) Clarey of Toronto and Gillian (Randy) Birss of Edmonton. Treasured grandmother of Tristan (Stephanie), Shannon (Connor) Roache, Richard and Daria Clarey. Step-Grandmother of Rina and Sam Birss. Fondly remembered sister of Robert (Gloria) O’Rourke, Patricia (Joaquin) Bengochea, Barb (Michael) O’Toole, Tom (Anne Marie) O’Rourke, and predeceased by brother Paul O’Rourke. She was the daughter of the late Daniel and Charlotte O’Rourke of Charlottetown, where Cathy was born and raised.

Cathy was a devoted wife and mother, and accounting clerk by trade. After retirement she loved nothing more than a great game of lawn bowling or stick curling which she and Alva played each season. She also loved aquafitness and cruising with her best childhood friend, Patsy Mills.

Cathy’s children and grandchildren were the light of her life and we loved her beyond words. She will always be remembered for her love of travel, adventure, generosity, amazing sense of humour, but most of all her love of life.

The Clarey and Birss family would like to thank Dr. Ellsworth and nursing staff of Unit 2 for the care and kindness shown. Special thanks to Debbie Clarey for always being so supportive in our times of need, your kindness will be remembered.

There will be no visitation or funeral service by personal request as the family will hold a private ceremony at a later date so Cathy and Alva’s ashes can be together forever.

If so desired, donations may be made to the Provincial Palliative Care Centre, who cared for her beloved Alva in July of 2023.

Arrangements entrusted to the Hennessey Cutcliffe Charlottetown Funeral Home. Online condolences can be made at www.islandowned.ca