Services & Obituaries

REA, Serena…

Our beautiful Serena Rea passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at the age of 19.

Serena was the beloved daughter of Trisha Rea and the cherished sister of Connor Twamley (Dakota) and Douglas Rea. She was the adored granddaughter of Gail Manion, loving niece of Sheila Bender, and great-niece of Linda Harmsworth.

Serena was deeply loving and fiercely loyal. She carried herself with strength and authenticity, never pretending to be anyone other than who she was. She loved without hesitation, protected those closest to her, and stood her ground without apology. A natural “mother hen,” Serena was always looking out for her family and friends-if she cared about you, you absolutely knew it.

She was wonderfully spirited, bold, and unapologetically real. Direct, honest, and strong-willed, Serena took nothing lightly and faced life head-on. She was feisty, fun-loving, unforgettable, and blessed with the most strikingly beautiful blue eyes-eyes that lit up every room and made her presence impossible to miss.

Serena loved the water and found comfort and joy at the beach. From a young age, she created countless memories camping, swimming, and kayaking on weekends and holidays with her mom, brothers, aunt, and cousins. A true girly girl, Serena loved getting her nails done, dressing up, and doing her hair and makeup. She had a natural talent for it and always looked absolutely beautiful.

Like many, Serena faced battles that were not always visible. She struggled with depression and addiction and fought courageously to find her way forward. She showed determination and strength in her efforts, often focusing on spirituality to keep her spirits lifted and her outlook hopeful. Although she was taken far too soon, her resilience and bravery will never be forgotten. Serena deserved more time, more chances, and more life-but her story will continue to matter.

A Celebration of Life for Serena will be held at the A. Millard George Funeral Home Reception Centre (located on the southeast corner of the parking lot), 60 Ridout Street South, London, on Sunday, April 12, 2026, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Family and friends are welcome to gather to honour Serena’s life, share memories, and remember the love she gave so freely.

Donations in memory of Serena may be made to the CMHA Thames Valley Addiction and Mental Health Services.

Serena will be forever loved, deeply missed, and remembered for her beauty, her presence, and her fierce heart.

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

Family and friends are welcome to visitation at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London on Friday, April 10, 2026 from 1:00 – 2:00 pm. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel at 2:00 pm.

Gomes, Patricia

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Patricia Marilyn Gomes (nee Gonsalves), of London, Ontario on April 4th, 2026.

Patricia is survived by her beloved husband Lawrence, children Laurencia (Andrew), Lianne (Anthony) and Lerrick (Jacelyn), and grandson Liam. Patricia was the youngest daughter of the late Mary and Ignatius Gonsalves, and sister to the late Glancey, late Rose Anna (late Matthew Quiney), Freeda (late Jerry D’Souza), late Celine (late Leslie), Jenny (late Oscar), and late Morris (Cecile). Patricia is also survived by her various nieces and nephews as well as extended family.

Patricia was born in Bombay, India on April 6th, 1955. After completing her Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Patricia gave tuitions to students and later dedicated herself to raising her 3 children. She was a talented and inventive cook who loved preparing meals for her family and any visitors.

Patricia’s greatest joy in life was being a devoted mother, wife, and proud Catholic. She loved nothing more than spending time with her children and being immersed in prayer. She was always there for her family and was especially dedicated to ensuring they grew up with the foundation of the Catholic faith. No matter what she was going through, she accepted her circumstances with a quiet strength and humility that was truly remarkable. Her care and affection for her family was unwavering and will be dearly missed.

While Patricia left us far too soon, the impact she had on her family and those she met will be felt for years to come.

Family and friends are welcome to visitation on Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 10:00 am until 12 noon at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. A funeral mass will be celebrated at St. George Parish, 1164 Commissioners Road West, London at 1:00 pm on Thursday. Cremation to follow. Interment at St. Peter’s Cemetery at a later date.

If so desired, donations in Patricia’s memory to a charity of your choice would be deeply appreciated, although not required.

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

ROWE, Ruth Elizabeth Mary…
1933-2026

Peacefully, at University Hospital, London, Ontario, with family at her side on Good Friday, April 3, 2026, Ruth Rowe (nee Horner) went to be with her Lord and Saviour at the age of 93. Beloved wife of the late William Gerald “Gerry” Rowe (1994). Loving mother of Scott Rowe (Mary Ann), Anne Wong (K-H), Mary Goral (Michael), Jane Greenwell (Garry), and Paul Rowe (Karissa). Cherished grandmother of Matthew Rowe (Nhu Y), Trevor Rowe (Natalie), Kristin Acton (Sam), Alissa Drappel (Matty), Caleb Rowe (An), Mark Wong (Emnet), Michelle Liu (Tony), Christina Goral, Kate, Abby and Jack Greenwell, Kai and Prairie Howard-Rowe. Beloved great-grandmother of 13 great-grandchildren and precious Aunt to her nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her parents Stanley and Mabel Horner, her brother and his wife Richard Horner (Marjorie), and her sister Janet Horner.

Ruth lived life to the fullest, devoted to her faith in Jesus, her family and her friends. Her inner beauty shone in her ready smile. Ruth was an active member of Wortley Baptist Church, later Hillside Church and most recently a member at Village Green Community Church. For many years she taught Sunday School classes and led after school Bible Clubs (Bible Centered Ministries, Key Bible Clubs). Ruth’s love for music led to singing in the Wortley Baptist Church Choirs and with London Singers, and to volunteering for Orchestra London. Hiking with the Thames Valley Trail Association and her membership in Nature London brought Ruth much joy in the outdoors. Vacationing and participating in the programs and retreats of Muskoka Bible Center, Huntsville, Ont. while enjoying the beauty of God’s creation were meaningful times for Ruth and her family. Ruth loved animals, especially her treasured companion and late dog Honey, who brought her many friends in the dog community near her home.

Ruth’s family would like to thank the special friends of Ruth’s life group and church (Village Green Community Church) who loved and supported her through the many challenges of living alone in her home with her dog Honey.

Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Saturday, April 11, 2026 from 1:00-4:00 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The Graveside Service will be held on Monday, April 13, 2026 at 11:00 am at Mount Pleasant Cemetery, 303 Riverside Drive, London. Please meet at the cemetery office, off Riverside Drive, for 10:45 am. A celebration of Ruth’s life will be held at Village Green Community Church, 505 Village Green Avenue, London on Saturday, May 30, 2026 with the tribute service beginning at 11:00 am. A livestream of the service can be found on the Village Green Church YouTube Channel, or by visiting the church website.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations can be made to Fellowship of Evangelical Baptist Churches (FEBC), Muskoka Bible Foundation, Bible Centered Ministries (BCM International) or Key Bible Clubs (through Christian Service Centers).

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

Woodward, Mark

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mark Woodward.

Mark is survived by his wife Samantha and his cherished sons Zachary and Max. He was predeceased by his beloved sister Kelly. Also surviving are his parents, William and Lynda, and his nieces Chloe and Emma.

His presence, humour, and love will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Family and friends are invited to a celebration of Mark’s life will be held on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at 2:00 pm at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. An open house reception will be following at the Woodward residence. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Mark may be made to CAMH. Online condolences, memories, and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

CHEHADE, Samih…

Passed away at Victoria Hospital, London, on Sunday, March 29, 2026 in his 85th year. Son of the late Jamil and Farideh Chehade. Beloved husband of Souria Chehade. Survived by his son Jamil Chehade and his wife Stefanie and their children Yasmeen, Ava, Sam; his son Daniel Chehade and his children Benjamin and Zackary; and his daughter Sandra Chehade. Also survived by his brothers Ramez Chehade and his family, the late Adnan Chehade and his family, Ghassan Chehade and his family, and his sisters Najat Chehade and her family, Nadia Chehade and her family, Nawal Chehade and her family, and Georgett Chehade and her family.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 from 5:00-9:00 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, with prayers at 6:00 pm. The funeral service will be conducted on Thursday, April 2, 2026 at 11:00 am at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 131 Southdale Road West, London. Interment in Woodland Cemetery, London. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Kidney Foundation of Canada. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

May his memory be eternal.

McKillop, Sandra…

Sandra McKillop’s family is deeply saddened to share the news of Sandy’s passing. Born in 1932 to Harry and Blythe Donnelly, Sandy initially grew up in her grandmother’s boarding house, with the family (by then including her sister Judith), moving to Winnipeg in her teen years. After her father insisted she learn a useful occupation at the University of Manitoba, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design. No less importantly, she met fellow design student Grant McKillop. “Snazzy,” as he was known in the day, worked tirelessly to get her attention, recognizing her kindness, intelligence and quiet determination – not to mention her beauty.

After graduation, Sandy brought her design skills to work in department stores and the new world of television before marrying Grant. Their 70+ year marriage led to the arrival of Chris (Kathleen), Sue (David Gray), Jeff (Karen Scarth), Bruce (Ann Harvey) and Scott (Christine). With all five kids in school, Sandy returned to design and found her true calling at Fanshawe College when she began a 25-year career teaching new generations of interior designers. She brought the same caring attention to her students as she did to her own kids.

Sandy enjoyed a long, healthy retirement with Grant by her side – always grateful that both were alert and active right up to the end, living independently and happily at Chelsey Park. She was very proud of her grandchildren Carter, Robert, Sam, Laurel, Emma, Kaitlin, Jack, Dallas, Hannah and Andrée and great-grandson Archie.
We will miss her very deeply.

“As it falls unto my lot, that I should go and you should not, I’ll gently rise and softly call, ‘good night and joy be with you all.'”

Sandy, Grant and the family thank the incredible staff at both Chelsey Park and University Hospital Neurology and Palliative Care units for their thoughtfulness and skill. The family welcomes her friends and colleagues to a visitation at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London on Sunday, April 26, 2026 from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, Sandy and her family would wish you to consider a donation to the Salvation Army or to the London Health Sciences Foundation for their Clinical Neurology Service fund or Palliative Care-UH Campus fund. Online condolences, memories, and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

RODGERS, John…

John Rodgers, of London, passed away unexpectedly at home on Monday, March 23, 2026 in his 84th year.

Dear father of John Paul Rodgers and his wife Maryam and Carri Rodgers-Rowley and her husband Jeff. Grandpa of Alexandra, Christopher and Jacob Rowley, and Behnaz Ensan. Brother of Karen and Dianne Kappler. Uncle of Lisa Schroeder. Dear friend of Barbara Rodgers (2017). Predeceased by his parents Elizabeth and Orval Kappler.

John was born in Toronto, but grew up in London. He had a long career in financing that took him and the family to several different cities in Ontario, but London was always home. His children and his grandchildren brought him much joy and pride. He would often share their accomplishments with anyone who would listen. A perpetual socializer, connecting and storytelling with clients, co-workers and friends gave him incredible energy. John or “JR” cherished time with his many friends, whether it be on the golf course, a backyard BBQ or a pub. The laughs and stories were the highlight of his days.

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of John’s life will be held at a later date.

In John’s memory, donations may be made to the Humane Society London & Middlesex or Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre.

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

MacDonald, Marguerite

Peacefully on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Parkwood Hospital, London, Marguerite passed away in her 92nd year. Beloved wife of the late Walter. Dear mother of Helen (Felipe), the late Roberta (Rob), Wally (Lynn), Geoff (Loranda), and Gordon. Marguerite is survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Dear sister of Larry. Marguerite will be lovingly remembered. She was an avid sports fan who loved curling, bowling, and golfing, and her creative spirit shone through in the many thoughtful, memorable gifts she made for family members. A private interment will take place in Woodland Cemetery, London. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Marguerite may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Online condolences, memories, and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Janice Elaine Reynolds (Nee Dickey)

July 17, 1954 – March 24, 2026

Janice Elaine Reynolds, better known as Jan, passed away peacefully at Extendicare London on March 24, 2026 at the age of 71.

She is greatly missed by her children, Lisa Reynolds (Christopher Sage) and Julie Reynolds, both from London. Also fondly and lovingly remembered by her ex-husband, Michael Reynolds.

Jan is survived by her siblings, Judy (Bob) Ironside, Deb (Mike) Hunter, and Chuck (Kerri) Dickey, as well as many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her sister Linda Smith (2004), her parents Bill (2005) and Joyce (2015) Dickey, her brother Jim Dickey (2022), and her niece Angela Benoit (2026).

Jan was born at the hospital in Exeter, Ontario, and was the fifth child in a large family. She grew up on a rabbit farm in Biddulph Township and moved to London as a young adult. She married, gave birth to her two treasured daughters, and raised them as a stay-at-home mom for nine years. When her marriage ended, she took a job as a cashier at A&P and put herself through school while continuing to raise her girls as a single mother.

When Jan finished her education, she began her career in computers and later moved to bookkeeping. She worked for Geddes Enterprises and GoodLife Fitness, and as her children grew, so did her outside interests. She joined the local Civitan Club and found friendship and fulfillment in supporting people with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities. She loved helping others and also volunteered with the Special Olympics and the Sunshine Foundation.

Jan moved to Toronto in the early 1990s, but returned to London to be closer to her children. She took a job with VON and worked there for over 20 years until her retirement in 2019. She loved animals and had hoped to volunteer with the Humane Society after her retirement, but dementia interfered with her plans. Despite this, Jan remained dedicated to helping others, and joined Knitting for Peace with her eldest daughter, where she proudly made hundreds of hats for preemies and babies in the NICU. She also made hats, mitts, and scarves that were donated to help warm up underprivileged adults and children around London.

Jan’s greatest joy in life was being a mother. Throughout the many challenges she faced, her deepest hope was that Lisa and Julie would know a life filled with opportunity, confidence, and independence. She worked tirelessly to nurture those qualities in her daughters and ensured they always felt her unwavering love and support.

Jan believed in cooperation and kindness, values she lived every day. She maintained a close and respectful friendship with her former husband, and together they continued to celebrate holidays, birthdays, and family milestones. In later years, they even enjoyed vacations as a united family.

Her strength of character and principles inspired those around her, including her children, to show more compassion and always act with integrity. She was fiercely proud of the women she raised, and they deeply admired her courage and determination.

We hope those whose lives have been touched by Jan throughout her journey will come and share their thoughts and memories as we honour this amazing woman.

Friends and family may visit on Saturday, April 4th from 12:00 to 2:00 PM at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, in London. The funeral service will follow at 2:00 PM, and a reception will be held afterwards at the AMG Reception Centre. Cremation has taken place, with interment at Exeter Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial donations made to Alzheimer Society of Ontario or Humane Society London & Middlesex would be warmly welcomed by the family. Online condolences, memories, and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com