Her Story. Our Fight.

Kerry Clynes
Treasured Friend, Champion of Others

It’s hard to capture in words just how extraordinary Kerry was. She wasn’t just a friend—she was that friend. The one who always had time to listen, a smile that could brighten your day, and a way of making everyone feel like they were her closest friend. Kerry had an incredible gift for talking through any situation with endless empathy and understanding. I also couldn’t talk about Kerry without mentioning her love for animals. Over the years, she rescued countless cats and other animals—including an owl she cared for overnight in a box by her bed. But that’s a story for another time!

 

Kerry started her journey in the optical industry in 2012 as a sales rep with Luxottica, representing luxury brands like Chanel and Tiffany. And if you knew Kerry, you’d know she didn’t just sell those brands—she lived them. Later, she joined Safilo as a Senior Rep, where she helped lead the Alberta, Canada team. As a rep, Kerry was a force to be reckoned with. She always had a solid plan and strategy for her quarter, and her relationships were her superpower. They were authentic, deep, and built on mutual respect. When Kerry made a recommendation, people listened—because they trusted her completely.

 

Kerry made a lasting impact on everyone she worked with and every team she was part of. She was able to win over the hardest skeptic and had a natural ability to lead within a team. She was often the person that teammates would call daily and ask for advice or talk through situations about how she would handle them.

 

Kerry was also the biggest champion of women in business. I have so many stories I could share where Kerry would call me and rave about a presentation or someone that she met who was inspiring to her. She would have no hesitation in speaking up on a call and saying how amazing the presentation was or reach out to someone asking to connect. Well, actually, Kerry would say “you are fabulous. We need to connect”.

 

Kerry had no time for negativity or gossip. She actively deflected it, choosing instead to focus on lifting others up. If she saw a situation that didn’t sit right with her, she didn’t stand by—she stood up. She fought for fairness and equality, always advocating for those around her. Her support was authentic, powerful, and deeply felt by everyone lucky enough to know her.

 

When Kerry was diagnosed with cancer, the hardest part for her was the waiting—the endless tests and the uncertainty of what came next. But Kerry, true to who she was, didn’t face it alone. She reached out to her community, especially those who had walked a similar path. Their stories, advice, and encouragement became a source of comfort and strength during those early months of uncertainty. Kerry also had the best support system through her husband Lyle, Parents and siblings. They helped her through every step of the way and navigated the cancer journey together.

 

When Mikki introduced the Her Story initiative, I immediately thought of Kerry and how much she would have loved it. The Optical Women’s Association embodies the very spirit of community—creating a network of women who support, inspire, and lift each other up. That same kind of community was what carried Kerry through her diagnosis and treatment. Kerry’s "army" of friends wasn’t just supportive—they were extraordinary. They rallied around her helping her navigate the incredibly challenging battle of cancer. I’ve truly never witnessed such an incredible group of people, and it’s a testament to the kind of person Kerry was. They were with Kerry until the very end and even after she passed, they created a strong support system for Lyle and her Parents.

 

Kerry had dreams of going to Italy after her treatments and enjoying a glass of rosé overlooking the ocean. Although she never got to fulfill this dream, her adventurous spirit and love for life continue to inspire us. Unfortunately, on June 16, 2024, Kerry passed away and lost her courageous battle with cancer. Heaven truly gained a wonderful angel who fought until the very end. Like, until the very last day of her life. She had a willpower that was unmatched and truly loved life. Kerry always gave so much of herself to all of us and I know she felt so much love going through her treatments through the support of her community. Through this initiative, we hope to carry forward her spirit, lifting others up just as she always did.