Services & Obituaries

Birch-Atkinson, Graham

Peacefully on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at University Hospital, London, Graham passed away in his 66th year. Beloved husband and loving soulmate of Rhoda Birch-Atkinson. Proud and supportive father of Jason Birch-Atkinson, Spencer Birch-Atkinson (Sarah and grandson Ronen), and daughters Christine, Shelly, Chelsea and Rachelle Birch-Atkinson. Adored brother of Tim Birch-Atkinson. Predeceased by his mother Jacqueline, older sister Julia and younger brother Christopher.

A hardworking mechanic by trade, Graham had a natural gift for tinkering with machines and fixing just about anything. He was known just as much for his sharp wit and hilarious sense of humor as he was for his big heart. He loved stand-up comedy and laughter and there was never a dull moment when Graham was around. If you were ever stuck in a ditch–literally or figuratively–he would be the first person there to pull you out.

Graham didn’t have the easiest life, and he would be the first to admit he didn’t always make the best choices. But through it all, he shaped his wife and children into the strong, resilient and compassionate people they are today. His legacy lives on in their strength, their humor and their ability to persevere.

Interment in Woodland Cemetery, London. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Graham may be made to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH). Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

JANCEY, Claire…

Claire Jancey passed away peacefully & quietly on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at the age of 90. Dearly beloved wife of the late Dr. Robert Christopher “Bob” Jancey (1996). Much loved mother of Keren (Robert), Christopher (Liana), Jeremy and Adrian. Cherished grandmother of Peter, Sophie, Parker, Michelle, Jake and Adam. Also survived by her brother Alan (Maureen) and his family. Visitation will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026 from 1:00-1:45 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm in the funeral home chapel. Cremation to follow with future interment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. Donations in Claire’s memory may be made to the Canadian Wildlife Federation, 350 Michael Cowpland Drive, Kanata, ON K2M 2W1. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

GOVAN, Victor…

October 25, 1924 – January 20, 2026

Victor lived life to the full and continued to do so for 101 years. He passed away peacefully at Parkwood Veterans Hospital in London, Ontario, surrounded by family members.

Victor leaves behind his wife and best friend Shirley with whom he celebrated their 55th anniversary on January 2nd, Victor was the father of 10 children, 29 grandchildren and 35 great-grandchildren. He will be missed greatly by daughters Margeret (late Harry), Sandra (David), Phyllis (Doug), Sharon (Michael), Brenda (Ron), Rena, Linda (Pete) and his sons Wayne and Peter. He was predeceased by his first wife Dorothy and his eldest son Bill (Janet).

Victor was born in Saskatoon, the son of Nora and William Govan. His two brothers, Brian (late Ruth) and Philip, both predeceased him. In 1943 Vic volunteered and joined the armed forces to serve his country during the second world war. He served time in France and Holland where he witnessed the Canadian liberation. Returning to Canada at war’s end he settled in London, Ontario where he remained for most of the balance of his life.

He will be remembered by many in the London area where he was very active in the Masonic order. A member of Corinthian Lodge #330, Scottish Rite and York Rite Lodge. He is a past President of Masonic Hall Company (London).

He co-owned a restaurant supply business in London with his brother Brian. He was also very active as a ham radio operator which broadened his horizons and enriched his life.

When Vic retired in 1988, he joined Shirley who took an opportunity to teach in New Zealand. After being away for a year, travel was in their blood and they became avid travellers. Exploring the world, cruising the oceans and also spending many winters in California and Texas.

Vic and Shirley were very active in their church, St. Martin-in-the-Fields where he was always ready to volunteer for any job.

When Victor turned 100 years he was delighted to see so many family members and friends all assembled over two days to celebrate.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thanks to the incredible staff of Chartwell Riverside, his nurse Satheesh and also the staff at Parkwood Veterans Wing for their care and compassion over the last month.

Cremation has taken place. A Masonic Service under the auspices of Corinthian Lodge #330 A.F. & A.M. will be held on Monday, January 26, 2026 at 6:30 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. Visitation will follow from 7:00-8:30 pm. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at 1:00 pm in the funeral home chapel. For those unable to attend, the service will be live streamed on the AMG Funeral Home YouTube channel.
In memory of Victor, donations may be made to the William Mercer Wilson Centre, 105-331 Commissioners Road West, London, ON N6J 4Y2 or charity of choice. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

LeBlanc, Fran

On Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at her residence in London, Fran peacefully passed away in her 75th year. Predeceased by her partner Ken Inglis. Loving mother of the late Mike LeBlanc and Tina (Rob) McAllister. Dear step-mother of Brian (Jenny), David (Kerry), Allison,  Andrea (Chris), and Steven (Florence). Cherished sister of Sharon (Chris) McCormack and John (LouAnn) McCormack. Cherished Noni of Caylie (Brent), Riley, Lucian, Quinton, Kynan, Piper, Grayson, Caedwyn, Oliver and Maeve. She will be missed by many family members and friends she has gained throughout the years.

During her life, Fran enjoyed being outdoors in her backyard gardening and working on her ponds. She had a creative mind when decorating and building bird houses. In her later years she loved creating memories with her grandchildren and working along side her daughter at Noah’s Ark Preschool.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London from 2:00 – 4:00 pm.

As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Fran may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or CMHA. Online condolences, memories, and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

PRINCE, Doreen

Doreen C. Prince (née Milner Cole) was welcomed into her eternal home by her loving Heavenly Father and Saviour on January 16, 2026, in her 97th year.

Deeply loved by her family, Doreen was the devoted wife of Don (predeceased) and the cherished mother of Barbie (Robbie), Barry, Bradley, Brenda (Brian), and Beverley (Dave). She was a treasured Nan to Elizabeth, Elliott, Nicole (predeceased), Maddy, Sarah, Mackenzie (Chris), Cooper, and Myah, and a proud great-grandmother.

Doreen was a loving sister to Christine and Margaret, and to Veronica and Clara (predeceased). She held a special place in the hearts of many extended family members and dear friends.

A woman of unwavering faith, compassion, and quiet strength, Doreen lived a life of service, devotion, and love. Her legacy continues in the countless lives she touched and in the happy memories shared by all who walked beside her.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 24th, at 10:30 a.m. at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South London. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

VICKERY, Barrington “Barry”…

Barrington Edward James Vickery, in his 61st year, passed away on Thursday, January 8, 2026, in London, Ontario surrounded by loved ones.

Barry was the beloved husband of Barb, loving father to Ryan (Caleigh) and Cassidy (Tom), and proud Grampa to Lincoln. Cherished son of Muriel Vickery, predeceased by his father Ron Vickery, and dear brother to Debbie. Barry was deeply loved by his many aunts, uncles, in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many cherished friends.

Barry dedicated 33 years to GM CAMI in Ingersoll where his strong work ethic and loyalty shone through. Known for his kind heart, steady presence, and love of laughter, he was a devoted family man whose warmth will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A heartfelt thanks to Dr. Winger, Dr. Foster, Dr. Mount, Nurse Julie and the whole C7 team at Victoria Hospital; As well as many thanks to Dr. Radford and the team at Juravinski Hospital in Hamilton for taking such good care of Barry throughout his battle.

In lieu of flowers please consider a blood donation through Canadian Blood Services or a donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Cremation has taken place. Family and friends are welcome to join together to celebrate Barry’s life. Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026 from 11:30 am-12:45 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. Words of remembrance will be shared starting at 1:00 pm. Future inurnment in Woodland Cemetery, London. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Cullis, Lois Isobel

March 26, 1931 – January 14, 2026

Lois Cullis passed peacefully in London Ontario on January 14, 2026.

She was the beloved sister of the late John A. Cullis and sister-in-law of the late Jean Cullis.  She was the Aunt of two nieces: Catherine Jane Hewer (Jim) of London Ontario and their families and Patricia Lee Boyd (Jonathan) of Brampton Ontario and their families.

Lois was born in Mariposa Township near Eden, Ontario and was proud of her heritage as a “tough farm girl”.  She taught children for many years for the Durham Board of Education in Oshawa and over several summers completed her Master of Library Science at Drexal University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.  Reading, attending plays, travelling and enjoying a good meal with friends and family were what she most looked forward to during these years.

No matter where she travelled, she always considered Orillia, Ontario her home.  During her retirement years, Lois continued to make Orillia her home base as she travelled to many countries in the world.  She gave numerous travelogues sharing her photos and memories of her travels.  She was also an active member of University Women’s Club, the United Church of Canada as well as being a regular blood donor. Lois was a voracious reader throughout her life and she considered many people as well as her cherished books as her friends.

A private family interment will be held at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Cambray Community United Church or the Salvation Army would be gratefully acknowledged.

Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories, and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

LOOSEMORE, Doreen…

Evelyn Doreen Loosemore died peacefully at Victoria Hospital, London, on Friday, December 19, 2025 in her 94th year.

Beloved wife of Fred Loosemore for 70 years. Loving mother of Dale Loosemore and his wife Gwen of Parkland County, AB, Darlene Brunette of Sarnia, Kathryn Loosemore (the late Alex Landy) of Wasaga Beach. Dear grandmother of Jason Loosemore and Michael Loosemore (Rachelle), and great-grandmother of five. Also missed by her sister Velma Robinson and her husband Jim of Exeter, and survived by her nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her brother Ivan McLellan.

Doreen lived a life rooted in faith, service, and love. A devoted and active member of her church, her strong Christian beliefs guided everything she did. She found great purpose in crocheting items for people experiencing homelessness and residents of long-term care homes, a big part of her life. Known as a wonderful cook, she also nourished others in her own home, where she shared a remarkable 70 years of marriage filled with devotion and commitment.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 12:00-12:45 pm, with a memorial service following at 1:00 pm at St. Michael & All Angels Anglican Church, 397 Springbank Drive, London, ON N6J 1G7. Future interment in Alvinston Cemetery, Alvinston. Donations in memory of Doreen may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, 1200-2300 Yonge Street, Box 2414, Toronto, ON M4P 1E4. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

WICKENS, S. Kimberley “Kim” (nee Daugharty)…

On Sunday, January 11, 2026, Sherry Joan Kimberley Wickens passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side at St. Joseph’s Hospice, London in her 70th year.

Loving mom of Laura Brannon and her husband Matt. Proud grandma of Jack and Nathan. Dear sister of Jane Lucas (John), John Daugharty (the late Susan Lennon), the late Jim Daugharty (Virginia), and Susannah Daugharty. Aunt of John, James, Elizabeth, Sarah and Chelsey. Predeceased by her parents Donald and Joan Daugharty and her granddaughter Holly Grace Brannon.

Kim was a devoted registered nurse with London Health Sciences Centre for over 25 years, caring for others with compassion and dedication. Creative by nature, she found joy in quilting but what meant the most was spending time with her grandsons and watching them grow. After being diagnosed with cancer nine years ago, Kim faced her journey with remarkable strength and determination, bravely participating in clinical trials and enjoying several meaningful years in remission. She grew up in Old South and took great comfort in returning there in her adult years, cherishing the sense of home and community it brought her. The family extends a heartfelt thank you to her oncologist, Dr. S. Welch, for his exceptional care, guidance, and support throughout her journey.

Cremation has taken place and in following Kim’s wishes, no formal service will be held. In memory of Kim, donations can made to St. Joseph’s Hospice, 485 Windermere Road, London, ON N5X 2T1. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

TOMLINSON, Michael…

Michael Tomlinson, beloved husband, father, papa, brother and retired educator, passed away unexpectedly on January 3, 2026, in his 84th year. He shared 55 loving years of marriage with his cherished wife, Lynne Tomlinson, who passed away in 2020. Together, they built a life filled with love, commitment and family. Dear Brother of Barbara MacIntyre and predeceased by his parents Leo and Ruth Tomlinson and sister Ronna McIlmurray. Michael is survived by his devoted children: Lisa Ancans (Graham), Kevin Tomlinson (Michelle) and Brent Tomlinson (Stephanie). He embraced his role as “Papa” with pride, offering guidance, encouragement and wisdom to his grandchildren: Jeremy and Lucas Ancans; Tyler, Joelle and Alyssa Tomlinson; and Connor and Maya Tomlinson. Music was a lifelong passion for Michael. He began playing the trumpet at a young age with the London Police Boys Band and continued through his years at South Collegiate Institute. He later carried this love of music as a member of the University of Western Ontario Marching Band. Michael dedicated 33 years to the London Board of Education, serving as a teacher, consultant, vice principal and principal. Even in his retirement, he remained actively involved in his community-serving as an assistant golf coach at Western University for 27 years, playing trumpet with Encore the Concert Band and singing with the Forest City Singers choir. In his spare time, Michael loved to golf with his best friends—including the frequent South vs Central alumni matches—attend summer theatre and play bridge online with close friends every Friday afternoon. He also treasured time with his family, gardening, cooking, supporting his grandchildren’s activities—including watching his grandsons play baseball—and celebrating holidays together around the kitchen table. Michael will be remembered for his love of family, dedication to education and the joy he brought to all who knew him. His kindness, wisdom and passion for life leave a lasting legacy in the hearts of his family and friends. Cremation has taken place. The family kindly requests that donations may be made to: Dreams Come True Music Studio (cheques payable to “Allison O’Connor – Dreams Come True music Studio and mail to Dreams Come True Music Studio”, 451 George Street, Port Stanley, ON N5L 0B1, e-transfer to [email protected], or online via https://ihaveresolve.com/donate/ and use Michael’s name for reference), the Heart & Stroke Foundation (1200-2300 Yonge Street, Box 2414 Toronto, ON M4P 1E4), or Western University Men’s Golf Team (Westminster Hall – Annual Giving, Suite 260, 361 Windermere Road, London, ON N6J 2K3) in Michael’s memory. When Lynne passed away during COVID, the Tomlinson family was not able to gather with family and friends to honour her life as they would have liked. All are invited to a celebration of life for both Lynne and Michael at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, on Saturday, January 24, 2026 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com