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MARGARET JOHN Obituary

On January 29, 2025, Margaret passed away peacefully, in Hamilton, Ontario. She was born in 1936 in Manchester, England, to George and Kate Gregson. Margaret was passionately involved in international human rights work for over 45 years, as country coordinator for Singapore and Malaysia at Amnesty International Canada. She was widely recognized as a foremost expert on Singapore and Malaysia and was awarded an honorary doctorate from McMaster for her work. Margaret and her husband, Brian, loved nothing more than spending time with their much-loved grandchildren, attending Shakespeare productions at Stratford, and having lively conversations about world events over afternoon tea. Predeceased by Brian; and her sister, Kathleen; she is deeply missed by her children, Andrea and Paul, their spouses, Richard Braha and Ying Su; her grandchildren, Paul and Nicole; and by her family in Manchester, England, and Pembroke Dock, Wales. Her friends and worldwide network of colleagues likewise feel the loss of such a remarkable person, who was known for her tremendous warmth, concern for others, and profound modesty about her achievements in making the world a better place. Many thanks to the healthcare workers at Amica Dundas and St. Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton. Heartfelt gratitude to the numerous friends who sent messages and visited her. It is a testimony to how much she is loved and appreciated. A memorial to celebrate Margaret's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Amnesty International Canada.

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Published by The Globe and Mail from Feb. 8 to Feb. 12, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for MARGARET JOHN

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4 Entries

Hannelore Eschle

April 6, 2025

Margaret was like a beacon to me during my time when we used to fight for the freedom of Chia Thye Poh who was released after 23 years. The greatest moment was then our meeting him in Hamburg where we both met him.
I have just found out with deep sadness that Margaret John has passed away who was a good friend for many years with amnesty international. She always encouraged and inspired me with her warmth and determination. I am very sad to have lost her. My deepest simpathy goes to her family whom she loved so deeply.
Hanne from Germany

Sarah Carmichael

February 10, 2025

Margaret was a tireless campaigner for human rights in Singapore and Malaysia, where I encountered her. We never met but her warmth and humanity shone through her email communications. My condolences to her friends and family.

Leslie and Pow Lin James

February 9, 2025

Margaret will be remembered as a passionate and dedicated advocate for human rights in Malaysia & Singapore in which capacity we first met. She was also a person of great charm and grace in her friendships. We count ourselves fortunate to have known her. We shall miss her.

Eunice Harker

February 8, 2025

I fondly remember my years of working with Margaret when I at Amnesty International - a tireless volunteer and determined advocate but such a wonderfully warm and lovely person. I am sad to learn that that light in the darkness has gone but she will have inspired many more to be lit and to keep shining a light on injustice. It was my privilege to know her. My heartfelt condolences to her family

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Memorial Events
for MARGARET JOHN

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