Sharon ELKINGTON

SHARON EILEEN ACKER ELKINGTON Sharon Eileen Acker Elkington, a beloved actress, proud mother, family member and dedicated friend, passed peacefully on March 16, 2023, in Toronto. Surrounded by her daughters, Kirsten (Kim) Everest and Gillian Macdonald; and granddaughter, Alexis White, she took her final bow. Born on April 2,1935, Sharon's life was a performance to remember. Her extraordinary 87 years were filled with laughter, drama and love. Sharon's love affair with the arts began early in life. She dedicated herself and honed her craft as an actress early on, and discovered her flair for the stage. Her fearless talent brought her to the limelight in Stratford, Ontario, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), and across the pond to London, England for her first feature film in the 1950s. However, it was her return to Toronto, as she raised her family, when Sharon's career truly blossomed. While at the CBC, American director, John Boorman, spotted Sharon. This pivotal moment propelled her into a dazzling Hollywood career. As Sharon collected accolades and awards, she was regularly cast in starring and innumerable guest roles, proving that her passion and dedication were a winning combination. Her performances delighted audiences with memories of her stunning beauty, energy and brilliant talent. Ever-present gratitude was the hallmark of her life. In addition to her achievements on stage and screen, Sharon studied art from a young age. Rarely out of work, she continued her passion for painting and sculpting whenever she could. Retiring in 1994, she returned to Canada with her husband, Peter, to live at their beloved cottage sanctuary in Muskoka. Winters were spent snorkeling the waters of the Caribbean. Sharon was always fascinated by the beauty of nature. Her vibrant spirit and her love for all life will live on in the hearts of her extensive family and the many, many friends she made during her remarkable journey. Sharon may have taken her final bow, but her powerful presence will forever resonate in the memories of all those who had the pleasure of working with, or simply knowing her. Beloved mother of Kirsten (Kim) Everest and Gillian Macdonald; grandmother to Alexis White (Julio Ramirez); great-grandmother to Berkeley White; and son-in-law Billy White. Devoted stepmother to Kim Elkington (Glenn Bogue), Caitlin Elkington Levy (Jimmy); and their children, Sara, Sam, Isaac and Maia. A dear sister-in-law to Nita Acker; and loving aunt to Ryan Acker and Melanie Welcher (Craig); and their beautiful children, Kyla and Gardner; cousin, David Glover (Judith); and their family. Sharon was blessed to discover her extended McBride family late in life, her sister, Marg; and brothers, John, Al and Gene (deceased). She leaves behind a long list of family who will treasure her memory. Sharon was predeceased by her parents, Aileen and Jim Acker; husbands, Ron Macdonald and soulmate, Peter Elkington; her loving brother, Gary Acker; and son-in-law, Bruce Everest. So here's to Sharon, a deeply spiritual woman, who lived her life with the same passion, grace, and commitment brought to every role she played. May her memory serve as a reminder that life is a stage, and every day is a chance to give the performance of a lifetime. Rest in peace, Sharon. You will be deeply missed, but your light will continue to shine on in our hearts. Celebration of Life to be announced. (Add Morley Bedford Funeral Home logo for condolences)