Services & Obituaries

TURNER, Diane…

Peacefully surrounded by family, at her home Diane (McMillan) Turner went to be with Jesus, on Monday, October 12, 2026, in her 84th year. Beloved wife and best friend of Willy Turner Sr. for 62 years. Loving mother of Willy Turner Jr. (Sharon), Randy Turner (Sharon) and Justine Turner. Cherished Grandma of Rhyce, Marshall (Jovana), Trae, and Great GG Mama of Roman. Dear sister of Calvin (Mary), Danny (Judy), and sister-in-law of Marion (the late Jim), Henry (the late Marsha) and Katherine (the late Dennis). Missed by her many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her brother David and her sister-in-law Patricia.

Family and faith were at the heart of her life. She was deeply devoted to her children and grandchildren and treasured the time she spent with those she loved most. She especially enjoyed cooking for her family and creating special memories with her grandchildren. In her spare time, she could often be found knitting, a pastime she greatly enjoyed. Her faith was an important part of her life, and she was a dedicated member of the Beth Emanuel Home and Foreign Missionary Society and Past President. She was also a devoted member and Past President of the East London Lioness Club, where her commitment to helping others and serving her community was recognized with the prestigious Helen Keller Award, honouring her dedication and support. Her kindness, faith, and devotion to her family and community will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Friends will be received by the family from 2-4pm on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, where the Celebration of Diane’s Life will be held in the funeral home chapel on Monday, October 19, 2026 at 1 pm (visiting from 12-12:45pm). Interment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London.

As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made the Arthritis Society Canada or Anova.

Online condolences, memories, photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

WILSON, Prema…..

Peacefully at Extendicare, London on Monday, October 5, 2026, Prema Wilson passed away at the age of 93. Beloved wife of the late Tommy Wilson (2022) for 68 years. Loving mother of Graham, Kevin (Susan) and Julia. Cherished grandmother of David, Naomi, Andrew and Emily (Roman) and great-grandmother of Oriah, Dielza, and Thomas. Also missed by her many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her siblings Gordon, Gwyn, and Beryl. Prema was born in East Kirkby, England, the youngest of four children, to David and Hannah Daniel. As a child, Prema lived in many places around the UK, moving with her Salvation Army officer parents to various appointments. One appointment took her to Bellshill, Scotland where she met the love of her life, Tommy Wilson. She and Tommy were married in 1954 while living in Hendon and later moved to North Harrow. Prema worked in London as personal assistant to the senior partner of Rooks & Co., located in the historic setting of New Square, Lincoln’s Inn, a prestigious legal enclave alongside Lincoln’s Inn Fields and the Royal Courts of Justice. Prema, along with her family emigrated to London, Ontario in 1975 to be with her husband Tommy’s extended family where she continued working as a legal secretary. Known for her wisdom, patience and kindness, she helped many who sought her advice, both in the UK and Canada. Her home became a “tea and Kleenex” gathering at times. She was a naturally great listener and confidante. As a mother, she was wise, deeply caring, positive and supportive. As a wife she was a rock, fully supportive and clearly the head of the family. The family would like to thank the staff at Extendicare London for the support and care given to Prema during her time there. Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, October 24, 2026 at 11:00 am, at the Salvation Army London Citadel, 555 Springbank Drive, London, ON N6J 1H3, with visitation from 10:00 – 11:00 am. Private interment in Woodland Cemetery, London. As an expression of sympathy, donations made to the Salvation Army London Citadel would be greatly appreciated. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. Online condolences, memories, and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

CARTER, Etwyn “Pat”……

Peacefully at her home, surrounded by family on Friday, October 9, 2026, Pat Carter went to be with The Lord at the age of 76.

Proud mother of Gary Carter (Stephany), Adrian Carter (Ingrid) and Andrea Carter. Loving grandma of Noah, Maxwell, Nigel, and Nathan. Beloved sister of Marcia Merritt and Carl Carter. Dearly missed by her many nieces and nephews. Predeceased her siblings Coswald Downes and Esther Carter-Scott.

She will be remembered for her kind and generous nature, always willing to give of herself and lend a helping hand to those around her. Her faith was an important part of her life and provided her with strength and guidance throughout the years. Pat cherished her family and treasured the time they spent together. She especially adored her grandchildren, who brought her tremendous joy and held a very special place in her heart. Her kindness, generosity, devotion to her faith, and deep love for her family will be fondly remembered by all who knew and loved her.

The family would like to thank the homecare medical staff and the Elders of the Church, for all the support, care and compassion provided.

Friends will be received by the family on Saturday, October 31, 2026 from 4 – 7pm, at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The funeral service will be held on Sunday, November 1, 2026 at 11 am (Visitation from 10-11am) at the London Seventh-day Adventist Church, 805 Shelborne Street, London ON N5Z 5C6.

As an expression of sympathy donations may be made to the church.

Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

DICKSON, Dennis…

Dennis Dickson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at St. Joseph’s Hospice in London on Monday, October 5, 2026, in his 82nd year.

Dennis will be lovingly remembered by his children, Shannon (Deborah Lambert) and Ryan (Amanda), and by his cherished granddaughters, Fiona and Sheena, whose proud Pappi he was.

Throughout his career, Dennis dedicated more than 30 years of service to the Ontario Ministry of Health, where he worked as Manager of Customer Services and Claims. He had a passion for gardening and took immense pride in maintaining his property.

Dennis was predeceased by his beloved wife, Shirley, with whom he shared 54 wonderful years of marriage. He will also be lovingly remembered by his brother, Mike (Margaret); his sisters-in-law, Mary-Jayne (Henry) and Susan (John); and his goddaughter, Louise Kanary.

He was predeceased by his parents, William and Mary; his brother, Bill; and his sisters, Peggy, Eleanor and Kelly.

Dennis will be deeply missed by his extended family and many friends.

Cremation has taken place, and a private family service will be held.

In memory of Dennis, donations can be made to St. Joseph’s Hospice, London.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com.

“Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and forever dear.”

SPRUYT, Coby…..

Coby Spruyt passed away peacefully at the age of 83 on Sunday October 4th, 2026 in London Ontario. Coby was born in 1943 in Gouda, Holland. She immigrated at the age of 10 to Canada along with her parents and her three older sisters. They all settled in London and London area. She leaves behind her son Richard (Noreen). Grandmother to Jacob, Tyler (Beverley), Mark (Madison). Great grandmother to Landon. Sister to Marie deWeerd (Cor) and Willy van Tooren of London. Dearly missed by her several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her parents, Jacobus and Wilhelmina and her sister Tina Weits (Gerry). In Coby’s younger years she was an avid and accomplished bowler. She participated in many leagues, earned numerous awards, and even bowled multiple perfect games. Coby was a longtime employee of Air Canada where she worked as a ticket agent at the London airport. Her career gave her the opportunity to travel extensively, with memorable trips to Europe, Hawaii and Jerusalem. Coby was a member of the Hillcrest Home League at the Salvation Army Church. In her spare time, she enjoyed crocheting and knitting. She was a long-time volunteer for St. Josephs hospital where she worked at the giftshop. Her grandkids have fond memories of playing shuffleboard and sharing pie with their grandmother. Coby’s family would like to extend their thanks to the care provided by nurses Sarah and Maddy at Strathroy Hospital. For the past five years, Coby resided at Country Terrace in Komoka. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Resident Service coordinator, Heather as well as many PSW who cared for Coby throughout her time there. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to Meals on Wheels London. According to Coby’s Wishes burial has taken place Mount Pleasant Cemetery. A Celebration of Life for Coby will take place Sunday, October 25th at 3:00pm at Village Green Community Church, 505 Village Green Avenue, London. A. Millard George Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

LAIDLAW, Phyllis Marilyn (née McCowan)…
Peacefully at Craigwiel Gardens on October 3rd, in her 85th year. Beloved wife of 62 years to Andy Laidlaw. Loving mother of Sheri Laidlaw and her wife Lisa Burton, and Janice Webber and her husband Ken Webber. Cherished grandmother of Edward Butler and Kendra Webber. Dear sister of Shirley Elliott and her husband Bill. Predeceased by her parents, John and Mary McCowan.
Born in Goderich and raised on farms in Brucefield and Porters Hill, Phyllis graduated from Goderich High School and moved to London, where she worked at Eaton’s and PepsiCo before becoming co-owner of To Wheels, London’s oldest bicycle shop. She had a lifelong love of music, a passion for travel, and a deep interest in researching the McCowan family history.
Friends will be received by the family on Thursday, October 15, 2026 from 2-4pm & 7-9pm at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel Friday, October 16, 2026 at 11am. Burial to take place in Pond Mills Cemetery, London. Donations in memory of Phyllis Laidlaw can be made to Craigwiel Gardens via cheque, e-transfer to [email protected] or by following the website donation link at www.craigwielgardens.on.ca. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Fisher (nee Mollard)…
Peacefully, at Parkwood Institute on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, in her 103rd year. Betty was the beloved wife of the late Clair Fisher (2022). She will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by her two children, Blake Fisher (Nancy) and Barbara Arnold (Ted); grandchildren, William Fisher (Evette) and Heather Smyth (Alexander); and great-grandchildren, Liam Fisher and Maggie Smyth. She was predeceased by her siblings, Beverley (Fran) Mollard and Marjorie (Vern) Pillsworth, and will be fondly remembered by many extended family members and friends.
Born in Windsor, Ontario on January 14, 1924, Betty was the youngest of three children of Harold and Beatrice Mollard. She attended Walkerville Collegiate, and worked at Wyeth Laboratories during WWII. After meeting Clair at a Windsor Arena dance, she married ‘the love of her life’ in 1947. In 1951, Betty and Clair moved to London and joined Calvary United Church, where they established many friendships, a circle that expanded through Betty’s involvement in the IODE and Maycourt.
Gregarious and fun-loving, Betty cherished special occasions and extended family gatherings. She was the last of a large cohort whose roaring years centered around curling and golfing at Highland Country Club, and she fondly remembered and cherished those friendships. In retirement, Betty and Clair enjoyed bridge, travel and time spent at their winter home in Florida.
Betty leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love and generosity, a nurturing spirit, and an amazing quick wit that kept all of us on our toes.
The family is sincerely grateful for the compassionate and attentive care Betty received at Victoria Hospital and Parkwood Institute. Special appreciation is also extended to the McKeough family for their enduring friendship, Lynne Kearns for her care and support, and the staff at Fox Hollow Retirement Home for their dedication and kindness.
The funeral will take place on Friday, October 9, 2026 at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The celebration will begin with visitation at 12:00 pm followed by a service at 1:00 pm. Donations in memory of Betty can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the MS Society of Canada. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

NORTH, Larry….

Peacefully at University Hospital, London, on Thursday, October 1, 2026, Larry North passed away at the age of 80. Beloved husband of Ollie (Peters) North of 45 years. Loving brother of Sharon Webb (Dave). Dear brother-in-law of Richard Hibma. Larry will be missed by his many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by Shirley Hibma, Lanny North (Sedella) and Sally Nemett. After retiring from TRW in Woodstock, Larry found great enjoyment in time spent at the trailer with Ollie and his cherished four-legged companion, Gracie. The family would like to thank the staff at University Hospital for their outstanding care provided to Larry. Cremation has taken place. A reception will be held on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 from 2-4 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home – Reception Centre, 60 Ridout Street South, London. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Mission Services – Quintin Warner or the Canadian Lung Association would be appreciated. A private inurnment will take place at Woodland Cemetery, London. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

THORNTON, Marion…

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Marion (Hooper) Thornton announce her passing at Earls Court Village in London, on Friday, October 2, 2026, shortly after her 100th birthday. Beloved wife of the late Orwell Thornton (2020). Survived by her daughter Lucille Switzer (Lloyd) and her son Donald (Karn). Also survived by her 5 grandchildren Scott, Stuart, Christopher, Ashton and Kalvin and their families, as well as several great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank the staff at Earls Court for the care and compassion provided to Marion. A private time of reflection and a private graveside service will take place at Woodland Cemetery, London. Donations in memory of Marion may be made to Wesley-Knox United Church, 91 Askin Street, London, ON, N6C 1E7 or to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 498, 20 Municipal Drive, Grand Bend ON N0M 1T0. A. Millard George Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at accepted at www.amgfh.com

RAYEW, Igor…

Igor Rayew passed away peacefully at the age of 87, Wednesday, September 30th, 2026 in London, Ontario.

He leaves behind his wife of 58 years Irene. Loving Father of Larissa (Shawn) and Tanya. Cherished “Deda” of Michael (Alicia) and Cassandra (Danny). Beloved Great-grandfather of Julian and Oliver.

Igor was born in Russia before immigrating to Canada at age 12. Igor married the love of his life, Irene in 1968. In his younger years Igor worked as a barber before moving on to the school board up until retirement. Igor cherished the time spent he vacationing with his family in Florida where they made many special memories. Igor was known for his strong will and loyalty to his family and friends. Always willing to lend a helping hand, he would never hesitate to help anyone in need.

The family would like to extend their thanks to the staff at Parkwood palliative unit for their compassionate care.

Prayers will be said on Monday, October 5th, 2026 starting at 6:00 pm at the Russian Orthodox Church of Christ the Saviour, 140 Fairview Avenue, London, ON N6C 4T8. The funeral service will begin at 10:00am on Tuesday, October 6th, 2026 with Very Reverend Vladimir Morin. Burial to follow at Woodland Cemetery, London.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Igor’s memory may be made to the Russian Orthodox Church of Christ the Saviour.

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