March 23, 1930 – February 27, 2022
Audrey died quietly on Sunday, February 27th at the Hôpital du Suroît in Valleyfield after a short illness. She was predeceased by her husband Melvin (1987). She is survived by her sons, Larry (Beth Bowser) and Allan (Bev Bethune), her grandchildren Tracy, Mark (Megan Osler) and Lesley (Ryan Andre) and great-grandchildren (Annie and Alistair).
Audrey grew up in Montreal during the great depression and World War II when rationing was a way of life. As a result, great consideration was always given before discarding anything, which was very obvious to anyone who visited her workshop. The Hurdman family moved from Montreal to Como in 1947 to enjoy life in the country. By chance, while attending the famous bottle race, she met her future husband Melvin Gray. The newlyweds settled in Como where they started their family.
Audrey’s love of dogs led her to starting Grayfield Kennels in the early 1960s. Her first love was Collies, but she was also a successful breeder of Shetland Sheepdogs and Bearded Collies. Over the years her dogs produced many well known national and international champions. Audrey was an active member of the United Kennel Club for over 50 years and served repeatedly as the Show Secretary for The Montreal International Dog Show.
Audrey had several passions and her creative flair was most evident in her sewing and gardening projects. Her keen eye for fashion and style led her and Mel to start a picture framing and upholstery business. Their orange Westphalia van was a fixture at Finnegan’s market for many years. She also served on the board of directors of the Greenwood Centre for Living History for years and worked tirelessly on “Treasures in The Attic”.
After selling the family home of 50 years in St. Lazare, Audrey spent her final years at Kilteevan. Independent and alert to the end, a visit without her grand-dog Maggie was frowned upon.
Due to Covid restrictions, a private burial will take place in March.
A memorial service and celebration of life for Audrey will take place Saturday May 28th, 2022 at 2pm at Greenwood Centre, 254 Main Road, Hudson. This will be an outdoor event under a tent rain or shine. In keeping with the spirit of Audrey hats for the ladies would be appreciated.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hôpital du Suroît in Valleyfield.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of GRAY Audrey nee Hurdman 1930- **UPDATE**..
aubry et fils residences funeraires
Death notice for the town of: Hudson, Province: Quebec