Lee TILL Obituary
The world is a little less beautiful with the passing of Lee Till on October 4, 2024. A cherished wife and loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Lee died peacefully, with her family by her side at NYGH. For 89 years, Lee brightened the lives of all who knew her, especially those of her family. Heartbroken by her loss and that of her cheerful smile and infectious giggle are her husband of 69 years, Ron; daughter, Margo; and sons, Larry (Michele) and Ian (Michelle). Saddened by the loss of their treasured Nana are her five grandchildren, James (Ashley), Liam (Jacqui), Kevin (Rachel), Martin and Erica (Antony); and her 11 great-grandchildren. Lee is survived by her siblings, Don (Helen), Lyn (John), and Ian (Mary); and was predeceased by her parents, Sheila and the Honorable George McGillivray. Lee was dedicated to and so very proud of her family. Her favourite place was Georgian Bay, usually at the family cottage at Go Home Bay, where she was noted for her morning rows, occasionally entertained by the water dance of loons. She also loved sailing around Georgian Bay and the North Channel with Ron. In later years, Lee and Ron travelled extensively and she managed to travel to every continent. Lee saw the best in people and contributed her caring touch, time, and talents in many ways. Reserved and self-effacing by nature, she demonstrated her innate strength and leadership skills in organizations such as Girl Guides, GHBA, Big Sisters and the Garden Club of Toronto, where she frequently entered prize-winning flower arrangement exhibits in Canada Blooms. Lee showed both leadership and athleticism teaching children diving and boating skills and in skipping curling teams with great success. Lee was creative in so many ways, including cooking, interior decorating, sewing, and all kinds of crafts. An accomplished landscape artist in pastel and watercolour, Lee enjoyed painting 'plein air' at the cottage, and has passed along her artistic flair to her children, and to her great-grandchildren who are budding artists. Her remarkable sculptured rug hookings are treasured by family and friends. She was a role model for so many, compassionate and kind, and a true friend. Thank you to Dr. Owen and the team at the critical care unit at NYGH, for your compassion and care of mom. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or Toronto Civic Garden centre would be appreciated. A Celebration of Life is planned for 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 16th, at Mount Pleasant Funeral Centre, 375 Mount Pleasant Rd.
Published by The Globe and Mail from Oct. 12 to Oct. 16, 2024.