Mary Dolores Withers (Cantwell)
September 6, 1945 to July 22, 2023
Obituary
To view the funeral service for Dolores Withers from St. Teresa’s parish on Thursday, July 27 at 10 a.m. please follow the link below:
https://tom0349.wixsite.com/streamingservices/carnells
Passed peacefully away in the presence of her loving family on Saturday, July 22 at the HSC, Mary Dolores Withers (nee Cantwell). Predeceased by her daughter, Renata Elizabeth and her parents, Frank and Margaret Cantwell. Leaving to mourn, her husband of 46 years, Vince, and her son, Chris (Tara). Two brothers, Gerry Cantwell (Dorothy) and Ted Cantwell (Donna). Three sisters, Helena Bragg, Agnes Cantwell, and Regina Angel. Nieces: Godchild Trini Bragg, Lindsay Boland (Dave), Andria Cantwell and Ashlee Angel (Paul). Nephews: Steve Bragg (Lori), Jason Cantwell (Miriam), Scott Cantwell (Stacy), and Craig Cantwell, as well as a host of grandnieces and grandnephews. Special sister-in- law, Patricia Withers and her two daughters, Ann Marie Bishop and Kathy Hare. Also, a special, lifelong friend, Doreen Walsh Noseworthy. It was with Doreen in their carefree younger days that she began to travel – a journey that sparked a lifelong love and passion. Dolores’ travels led her to all corners of the world and spanned all 7 continents, sharing these adventures with her son Chris.
Dolores spent her early years with her parents and siblings at Cape Spear, living first in the building that is now a National Historic Site and later in the dwelling that is now the Cape Spear Café. Her father carried on the Cantwell tradition as lightkeeper, which ended with her brother, Gerry, being the last lightkeeper when the lighthouse became automated. Privately taught by her mother until she completed Grade eight, she then attended school at Holy Heart of Mary Regional High School and went on to earn a teaching degree at Memorial University. Her teaching career spanned 35 years, many of which were spent as vice principal of Presentation Convent School.
With her husband, Vince, she helped form the Eating Disorder Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador (EDFNL) almost twenty years ago. The organization was founded in memory of their daughter, Renata; and they have been the driving forces behind its success in providing caregiver support, in counselling them, and annual scholarships to deserving students who plan a career in the healthcare system.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Carnell’s, Freshwater Road. Cremation has taken place. No visitation. No flowers by request. Those wishing to can make donations to EDFNL in her name.
Vince and Chris are grateful to the doctors, nurses, and support staff of 5 North A for their exceptional care and compassion.
A celebration of her life will be held at 10 am on Thursday, July 27 from St. Teresa’s Church, Mundy Pond Road. Inurnment to follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.
From God – To God
Schedule
funeral
10:00am, Thursday July 27th
St. Teresa's Parish
120 Mundy Pond Rd, St. John's
Inurnment to follow in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.
To the Withers and the Cantwell families. So sorry to read of the passing of Dolores, such a thoughtful person.. Hold close to the memories.
Our deepest condolences to the Withers and Cantwell Families.
Our thoughts and Prayers are with you all.
Debbie(Cantwell) and Carl Macleod
Our deepest condolences to the Withers and Cantwell families on the loss of Dolores a wonderful loving woman. Hoping all of your wonderful memories will give you some comfort ❤️
Vince, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your wife. I have been thinking about you and your family ever since I heard. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I hope all the special memories you have shared together will bring you some comfort. I have been away but thinking about you from a distance. My deepest condolences and heart felt sympathy . Heidi and Chtis carew
Sincere condolences to Agnes, the Cantwell and Withers families on the loss of your beloved Delores.
Betty & Sid Greeley (Clarke)
Vince sincere condolences to you and family for your loss.
To Regina Angel, the Cantwrll and Withers families, My deepest sympathy at this sad time.
Kathleen Martin
Vince and Family. So sorry to hear of Delores passing. As neighbours we enjoyed chatting with her. We will miss her friendly smile. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Sincerely Art and June King
My deepest condolences to the Withes family at this time.I met Delores and Vince while doing some work on their cabin,they were so nice.May she rest in peace.
Dear Vince and Chris, Please accept my deepest sympathy on the death of Dolores. She was so proud of you and it was a delight to meet her children at school. She was so involved in every activity and fundraiser. Losing a love one is always difficult. In her teaching she made a positive difference in the lives of so many students at Presentation School and to the staff.
She always sought to bring the best to her teaching and used the library to enhance instruction. May her memory be a blessing and be a source of comfort in these days of sadness. May she rest now in the peace and joy of the Risen One. Blessings
Vince and Chris,
So very sorry to hear about Dolores’s passing. She was always so gracious and kind when we would talk. Sincere condolences to all the family.
Cathy Skinner
Vince…..so sorry to hear of Delores passing, our deepest condolences to you and your family.
Vince, Chris, Withers and Cantwell Families:
We offer our prayers and condolences on Delores passing . I have fond memories of being on staff with Delores at Presentation Convent School. She was very dedicated to her students and a good administrator. May She Rest In Peace.
Rosemary and Frank Galgay
Vince and Chris,
We were so sorry to hear about Dolores’s passing. She was such a lovely person; always kind and always a smile.
Thinking of you both,
Lori & Paul Price
So sorry to hear of the passing of Dolores. May you find comfort in loving memories..
Vince and Chris,
I was heartbroken when I heard of Dolores’s passing. Dolores has been such a special part of my life for over 15 years. She took a special interest in my kids lives and was always delighted when I shared their successes with her. Dolores was a such a loving person with an infectious smile. The many chats, laughs and tears we shared over the years will remain in my heart forever. May your treasured memories of her bring you love and comfort.
Rest in Peace Dolores…Forever Remembered.
Tina Martin and Family
Chris, Mr. Withers and family, I extend my sincere condolences on the loss of your beautiful mother and wife. I have heard many stories of Chris’s travel adventures with his mom and hope those wonderful memories and the love you shared will console you at this time. Kim Walsh
Vince and Family.
Jeanette and I are saddened to hear the sad news that Dolores had passed away. It was always a pleasure meet and spend time with both you and Dolores.
I will always cherish my association with both the Withers and Cantwell families.
Please accept our sincere condolences for your loss.
JEANETTE and JIM BRADBURY
Vince and Chris
Like all of us I was very saddened to hear of the passing of Dolores. I have always enjoyed my conversations with her and watched as she has given to her family and so many others.
My wife, Deb Murray, told me she was a great teacher. However to Deb’s grade eight class, she was more of a movie star with black hair flipped out on the sides and wearing perfect miniskirts.
For all of us, you and Dolores have fought the illness of eating disorders. Your support has been magnificent.
May the memories of Dolores bring strength to you and Chris as you continue your efforts to help those in need throughout the Province.
Miller and Deb
Vince, Chris and families,
So very sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time
Vince and family, very sorry for your loss, deepest condolences at this difficult time.
Vince, Chris, Withers & Cantwell Families, It is with sadness I read of Delores’s passing. I first met her at Presentation Primary School many years ago. Images of Delores which always bring a smile was her daily routine at recess hr of having her hair and hairbrush engaged. Ensuring her beautiful black hair was always perfect. We shared many happy times together. Geri & Ron
To Ted, Donna & The Withers Family: Sincere condolences on the passing of Dolores. God Speed.
Vince, Chris & The Cantwell Family:
My Sincerest Condolences on the passing of your beloved wife, mother, sister Dolores. Our friendship goes back many years when we were young & carefree. Most especially travelling to EXPO 67 in Montreal with Agnes & Dolores and the long lineups to the various exhibits. May she have eternal peace.
Sincerely,
Anne Hunt Peddle
Ted & Family:
Our Condolences on the loss of your sister. Although we didn’t know her it is very clear from reading the condolences messages that she was well liked by everyone. May she Rest in Peace. Take Care.
Chris and Family,
I am truly sorry for the passing of your mother. My heartfelt sympathies to you, your Father and your entire family. May the memories you having travelling this earth with your mom bring you some peace at this most difficult time.
I am so sorry to see Dolores obit this morning. I had no idea that she was not well.
She was a lovely person. I always enjoyed being in her presence . Her lovely smile radiated from her face. I am sure you are all missing her. She always spoke so fondly of you. She is a big loss to many..
I am sorry I can’t join you Thursday morning..
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Hugs,
Karen Hickman
Dear Ted, Donna, and Cantwell and Withers families,
We were so sorry to hear of the passing of Dolores, our condolences. Thinking of you all at this difficult time, sending our love.
Vince, Chris, the Cantwell and Withers Families,
Sincere sympathy and prayers on the loss of Dolores. I had the pleasure of teaching with Dolores at Presentation Convent School. May Dolores rest in peace.
To the Withers and Cantwell families.
I offer my sincere condolences on the passing of Delores. “Ms. Cantwell” was one of the best educators I feel privileged to have called my teacher.
She engaged her students everyday. Encouraging us to ask questions, seek help, try harder. She was always approachable, honest and willing to give of her time.
More than a passing grade………”Ms. Cantwell” I award you 100%……..A Job Well Done! God Bless!
Vince, Christopher, the Withers and Cantwell families.
We are so very sorry to hear about Delores’s passing. We known Delores from our involvement in the Eating Disorder Foundation NL since its inception almost two decades ago.
She was such a quiet but strong support to Shirley and I, in fact, to many more folks. Always genuine and compassionate, she reached out to help others even while shouldering her own sadness
One couldn’t know Delores without feeling her love and kindness always amplified by her gentle way with everyone.
This wonderful woman will be missed by all that knew her.
Shirley and I extend our deepest sympathy to Vince and Chris at this sad time. May Delores rest in peace!
Pat and Shirley Collins
Sincere Condolences to All Your Family on Dolores’ Passing. Our Thoughts and Prayers are with you All. God Bless! Sincerely Jane & Lloyd.
Vince sincere condolences to you and Chris on the passing of Delores. My thoughts and prayers are with both of you at this very difficult time. Take Care.
Ken Russell
Vince and families, we are sending along our warmest regards to you all. Although this is a sad time, we hope that precious memories will rise above your sorrow. Rest in peace Dolores.
We were deeply saddened to hear of Dolores passing. Our mother, Marie Roche, was on staff with Dolores for many years at Presentation Convent School. Following in our mother’s footsteps, two of us (Margie & Gloria) became teachers. It was Dolores who gave us many of our early days of substitute teaching. Her warmth, kindness and compassion as a teacher and mentor inspired us and will forever be remembered.
“Those who teach others shall shine like the stars.”
Margie, Gloria & Anne Marie (Roche)
Vince, Chris and the Cantwell and Withers Families,
Sincere sympathy and prayers on the loss of Dolores. The Presentation Sisters thought highly of Dolores as an excellent teacher, admini#tractor and friend.. Rest in God’s peace, Dolores.
Sending my condolences to Mrs. Withers family,
I remember her from my school years many years ago. Rest In Peace
Vince and Christopher
We were shocked and saddened to read of the passing of Delores. We remember her very well from many times in her company over the years. Our sincere condolences to you and your families at this sad and difficult time.
Vince, sincerest condolences to you and your family on your wife Delores’ passing. May she rest in peace.
Betty Murphy & All the Murphy Family
Vince and family
Sincere condolences to you all on the passing of Delores
She made a difference to many on her earthly life and is now at rest .
May that rest be in peace
Godspeed Delores
To Vince, Chris, and extended families sincere condolences with the passing of your wife and Mom. May your many wonderful memories help you through this most difficult time. RIP.
Please accept our deepest condolences
Mr. Withers and Chris my deepest condolences on the passing of your wife and Mom. Cherish the good memories you have made with all your travel’s together. May her gentle soul rest in peace.
Very sorry to hear of Delores passing. May she rest in peace..
Dear Uncle Vince, Chris and all friends and family of Dolores, sending my heartfelt condolences. What a lovely person Aunt Dolores was, I have a lot of memories of her warmth, caring and wonderful laugh and smile.
Sending hugs to all,
Kim (Kiss) Molloy
Vince and Family,
Our condolences on the passing of Delores! I taught with Delores and St.Pat’s Elementary and She so devoted to her students . Rest In Peace Delores.
Our deepest sympathies to Vince, Chris and all the families who are impacted by this loss! Our thoughts and prayers are with you during these difficult times!
“ We never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought , and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories.”
Vince and family, so sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences to you all.
Ted ,Donna and all the Cantwell and Withers Family ., We are so sorry for your loss . You are in our thoughts and prayers at this stressful time . Remember all the good times you had with Delores . It helps get through some of the bad .Love Bob & Carol Nolan
Sorry for your loss. Deepest condolences to Vince and family.
Vince, Chris and all the Withers & Cantwell families, We were shocked and deeply sad when we heard of Dolores’s passing. She was such a gentle lady and always a please to be around. May the wonderful memories of your time, and travels together, take away some of the pain we know you are feeling now.
May she rest in peace.
Gleniss & Paul Thomey
I was saddened to hear of Delores’ passing. Reading the obituary brought back many fond memories for me as a child. Time spent at Cape Spear and many drives and treats with Doreen and Delores. She was the coolest teacher at St. Patrick’s. I always looked up to her and enjoyed her sense of humour and wisdom.
My sincere condolences Vince and Chris… I’m thinking of you both. I know you will find comfort in the beautiful memories you made as a family, and also in the fact that Delores is happily reunited with Renata. 💞
Vince, Chris and family, we offer our condolences on the passing of Dolores. May her memories sustain your during this difficult time.
Vince and family, my sincere condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you all in this very difficult time.
“Fágann saol maith ina dhiaidh oidhreacht álainn.”…..A life well lived leaves behind a beautiful legacy
Vince, Chris and families, sincere condolences of passing of Delores, I too was one of her Presentation student. She was very kind and nicest teacher I had at the school. Fly high with the angels. RIP
Sincere condolences to Vince and family. We are sorry for your loss.
Gerry Edney & Family
Sincere condolences to family and friends!”Miss Cantwell”taught me at Presentation School Grade 7..I never forgot her! She was a lovely person and so very kind. RIP
Vince, Chris and Families, we are very sorry to learn that Delores has passed. May God give you peace and strength to deal with this immeasurable loss to you both. Our love and deepest sympathy.
Peter and Janet Kendall
RIP Delores. I didn’t know you, but my daughter suffers from an ED and is in recovery (2 yrs now). I want to thank you and Mr. Withers for shining a light on this disease as I’m sure my daughter would not be with us today. Heaven needed another angel and you were hand picked I’m guessing. God bless Withers family.
Signed, a friend.
Chris, I am sure that anything I say right now will be words you have heard a thousand times and that words probably seem very hollow. I promise that all of those words come from a place of caring and I hope that they do bring some comfort. From the bottom of mt heart, I am sorry for your loss.
Our deepest condolences to all the family and friends of Delores. We’re certain she will be forever missed by all.
Sincerely,
Martina (cousin) and husband Sebby
DiGiacomo
Vince (and family),
I am so sorry for your loss. I am thinking about you during this difficult time. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Jacqueline Carter-Major
I am one of Delores students from Presentation. She certainly was dedicated to her students. I also am a retired employee of Bell Aliant. To her family I am sorry for your loss.
Vince, Ted, Gerry, condolences to you and your family.
Vince , Chris and Cantwell family
I was shocked to hear of the passing of Dolores.
I have fond memories is times spent with Vince, Dolores and Chris and early years when I knew some of Dolores’ siblings. My sincere condolences to all during this difficult period dealing with the loss
Chris O’Dea
Vince and Chris, so sorry and shocked to hear of Dolores passing my thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time. Hang on to your wonderful memories
Ted, Donna and family…We are so sorry to hear about the passing of your sister/sister-in-law.
Please know you are in our thoughts during this sad time.
Ted and Family, so sorry to hear about the passing of your sister. Please know that we are thinking of you all. May your sister rest well in peace.
Dear Vince, Chris and the Cantwell family,
We are sending our prayers, love and thoughts to as you grieve.
Cousins-Lorraine, Gary and Karen Edney.
Ted, Donna, Scott and Craig. And all the Cantwell and Withers family,
I have fond memories of Miss Cantwell as a teacher at Presentation. Elementary. She was loved and respected by her students.
Condolences to all the family on the loss of such a wonderful lady.
from Paul and Susan Hiscock
Vince & Chris, I’m so sorry for your loss. Deepest condolences to you & all the family.
Vince and family, sorry for your loss.
Vince and Christopher ,we are shocked and saddened to hear of Delores’s passing.
We hope you will find comfort in all of the great memories you made together.
Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Chris, I am so sorry for your loss of your Mom. There are no words I could say to make this easier for you. please know you are in my thoughts, I’m sending love & strength to you & your family
Vince, Chris and family. I’m so sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. She was such a lovely person. May your memories bring you comfort during this time of loss.
Krista Wade
I remember Mrs. Withers fondly from my days as a student at Presentation. Always had that lovely smile. Condolences to her family. RIP
So very sorry to learn of Dolores’ passing. Thinking of you at this sad time…..May she rest in peace. Sincere condolences to all her family !
Chris and family,
I’m so sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. Thinking of you during this difficult time.
Vince and family, we are so sorry for your loss. May she rest in peace. Sincere condolences to all she loved, and all who love her.
Ted,Gerry and families I am so sorry for your loss.
Our deepest condolences to you.
Sending condolences to mrs withers family. So sorry for your loss. former student of hers at presentation ( krista Jarvis) my two sisters were also taught by mrs withers at presentation Linda and Tammy Jarvis. She was a wonderful and caring woman and loved all her students dearly.
Chris and Family, condolences, very sorry for your loss.
Sending condolences to Mrs. Withers family. So sorry for your loss. Jackie (Eddy) Snow. -former Presentation student. God bless
May you rest with the angels, I remember her from my school days at Presentation, Mrs. Withers was a very caring and she wore her heart for ALL students on her sleeve. May you Rest In Peace. 🌹💄
Vince and family:
My prayers for your consolation at this time of sadness. Dolores was a great educator and influenced the lives of many children in her career. She sought to draw out the potential of each student and nourished the seed of their faith. in her time of teaching and leadership in the Catholic School System, particular with the Sisters at Presentation School.. May her soul rest in the loving arms of Jesus the Good Shepherd. we will offer Mass for her at the Basilica.
Gerry, Ted and families we wish to offer our sincere condolences on the passing of your sister Delores. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Agnes and family,
I am so very sorry for your loss
Ted and family; so sorry to hear about the passing of your sister. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time. Donny and Ruby Colbert
Please accept my sincere condolences on Dolores passing. May her gentle soul R.I.P.
Sincere condolences to the family ..Rest in Peace.
Chris, I am so sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Adriana
My sincere and deepest sympathy on the passing of Dolores. She had a beautiful smile and always enjoyed a joke, a story and a laugh when you met up with her.
Keep the wonderful memories alive. May she RIP!
Blessings
~Barbara~