SUZIE SCOTT

Suzie Scott died on her own terms by Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) on February 20, 2026, after a brief and difficult battle with cancer. Those who were lucky enough to know her will never forget her. Born in Indiana in 1946, her young life was ruptured by her mother's tragic death when Suzie was twelve. She spent her formative teenage years moving from one city to another, her care overseen by relatives and teachers who saw something special in the strong-willed teenager. The classroom was Suzie's refuge, and she excelled academically throughout all the upheaval. She came to Canada at the height of the Vietnam War and never looked back. Canada was lucky to have her. She graduated from York University with a B.A. in Psychology in 1974, then, as a single mother, attended law school at the University of Toronto, often with her young daughter in tow. Suzie articled for renowned criminal lawyer, Edward L. Greenspan, and was called to the Bar in 1979. That was only the first step in her lifelong crusade against injustice. With her superb intellect and formidable drive, she spent her life as a lawyer fighting for the rights of those who did not have the benefit of privilege. A fearless advocate, she fought against police misconduct and wrongful convictions, defended women's and LGBTQ rights, championed academic freedom, combatted sexual harassment in the workplace, and later advocated against age discrimination in employment and public pensions. Not all of us can say that we changed people's lives for the better, but Suzie did. Suzie spent countless hours in the dirt creating her beautiful backyard oasis, which was her pride and joy. She was an avid reader of thrillers and non-fiction alike, and was a home improvement queen. She loved adventure and travelled the world, seeing Asia, Africa, Europe and more. Suzie loved to cook and entertain, and made the best cherry pie this side of the border. Throughout her life, Suzie remained actively engaged in political causes, advocating for social justice and tolerance. In her final years, Suzie enjoyed nothing more than spending time with her two loving and adorable grandsons. She is survived by her husband, Raymond Rea; her daughter, Sage Scott; Sage's partner, Trevor Saxton; her grandchildren, Jonah and Jacob; her sisters, Dolly Cebulash and Sally Battin; her brother, Robert "Butch" Hasinbiller; her nephews, Patchin Hasinbiller and Daniel Quinlan; and her longtime close friend, Bernard Hashmall. They will love her till their last breaths, cherishing memories of her indomitable will and generous love. The family would like to extend their deep gratitude to the doctors, nurses and staff at Juravinski Hospital Emergency Room, and the Juravinski Cancer Centre for the unwavering and sensitive care they provided Suzie during her time in need, in spite of staffing shortages and underfunding from the Government of Ontario. The family also would like to thank the staff of Emmanuel House hospice for the care and support they provided during her final days. Last but not least, the family is grateful that she was able to avail herself of MAiD. While alive, Suzie was always in charge of her destiny. Because of MAiD, she was able to die as she lived. A celebration of Suzie's life will be scheduled.