Gibb-Carsley, Natalie Maude Gibb-Carsley (Nee Crawford) July 5, 1936 - March 19, 2014 Natalie's passing leaves very saddened, John, her much loved husband of almost 54 years; her cherished children, Althea, Victoria, and John (Jennifer) and grandchildren Zander Machan, Anna and Evan Carsley-Jones and Parker Gibb-Carsley. She also leaves to mourn, her brother John Crawford (Cheryl) of Toronto, Stephen Jones, May Mikhail, sisters-in-law Helen (Nick Farrell) of Montreal, Christopher (Lynda Hire) of Hemmingford and Pamela (David Milne) of Ottawa and their families. Natalie was predeceased by her wonderful parents, Brigadier-General Dr. John Crawford and his wife, Maude (Hopper). Throughout her full life, Natalie's upbeat nature was to spread happiness, show love and compassion, and give encouragement to and for those who had the good fortune to meet her in daily life. Her mission was to give unselfishly of herself to the comfort and joy of her family and friends even when confronted with many challenging years of failing health. Never did Natalie say, "Why me?" as she dealt with life threatening cancer for many of her last 27 years, displaying extraordinary courage, optimism and stoicism all the while. Natalie contributed greatly to her community, serving on the Perth Planning Board, the boards of the Children's Aid Society, the Perth Daycare and, for many years, the Perth & District Union Public Library-a very favourite and frequent destination to satisfy her keen intellect and prodigious appetite for reading. Over the years Natalie involved herself with St. James Church making banners and helping with dinners, the Cancer Society, and as a founding member of the Perth University Women's Club. Her strong organizational and creative skills were much appreciated by those with whom she worked. For over 20 years Natalie taught English and Art at Perth Collegiate and coached the public speaking team. A highly respected and beloved teacher, she had many students say to her, some many years later, what an effective and encouraging influence she had upon their lives. Natalie took great joy from being with her children and grandchildren, spending time swimming and gardening at the cottage, with her book club, the Writer's Circle and 'Breakfast Club' friends, and with the "Pickwickian Pedalers'" trips in Canada, the USA and once to France. She was a skilled artist who got great joy from calligraphy, drawing, and painting. She especially enjoyed the set design work she did for community theatre productions. She was able to enjoy travels and cruises with John to Europe, the Caribbean, the Pacific and South America in recent years. Natalie's family wishes to express thanks for the unwavering support they received from many friends during the past few months and even longer. Natalie often said how lucky she was to have such kind friends. Very much appreciated was the care of many in the medical community. You are too numerous to mention by name, but you know who you are. Thank you all. Most of those who knew this tall, gracious and lovely woman will remember best her ever present smile, so radiant and warm. A fitting epitaph could be: Never underestimate the power of a smile! Friends may pay their respects at the Blair & Son Funeral Home, 15 Gore St W Perth on Friday, March 28th, 2014 from 2:00 to 4:00 & 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Funeral service will be held in St. James Anglican Church, Perth on Saturday, March 29th, 2014 at 10:30 A.M. Interment, Elmwood Cemetery. Donations in Natalie's memory should be directed to "The Perth & District Union Library”, The Chris Tyson Fund (Summer Camp Program) Family and Children's Services of Lanark, Leeds and Grenville or the GWM Hospital Foundation.