Services & Obituaries

Morley, Verlyn Lousie

Verlyn Louise Morley (nee Lenover) passed away peacefully on October 4, 2024, in her 95th year, held and surrounded by family at her home in London, Ontario.

Louise was predeceased by her beloved husband John (1989), parents Thaddeus and Edythe, brothers Robert (1995), William (1942), Donald (2012), and Delbert (2022), and sister Doreen (1933).

She is survived by David and Virginia Morley, Karen Schindler, her much adored grandsons Luke (Michelle), Jake (Alessia), Aidan (Isabelle), Owen, and Brennan, as well as many loved nieces and nephews.

Louise grew up in Chatham, Ontario and moved to London in 1948, graduating as a RN from Victoria Hospital in 1951. Louise worked as a nurse at Victoria Hospital and in social work at Children’s Aid, volunteered for many years for the CNIB, and rounded out her career in administration at OHIP. She married John Morley from Parkhill, Ontario in 1952 and they spent 36 cherished years together before his passing in 1989. He remained the love of her life. Louise’s world revolved around her family, her many circles of friends, especially her lifelong Victoria School of Nursing classmates, her extensive travels, and in her later years, her much anticipated weekly games of bridge.

Cremation has taken place. There will be a private family interment at St. Mary’s Brinsley Cemetery in Ailsa Craig, Ontario, and a celebration of life for family and friends will be held on Saturday, November 9, 2024, from 2:00 – 4:00 pm at the  A. Millard George Funeral Home Reception Centre. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in Louise’s name be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Online condolences, memories and photographs can be shared at www.amgfh.com.

MURCHISON, David

David “Dave” Murchison passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 3th, 2024 at University Hospital in London, Ontario in his 90^th year. Beloved husband of the late Elsie for 58 years. Loving father of Dr. Sylvia Murchison and her husband Alex Hanham of London and Stephen Murchison and his wife Karine Milliard of Ottawa. Cherished grandfather Olivia Hanham, Tabitha Hanham, Charlotte Murchison and Juliette Murchison. Dear brother to Katherine Murchison and Bruce Murchison.

Dave was a passionate and accomplished golfer, having been assistant to the head pro at Mississauga Golf and Country Club in the 1950s. And it was there that he met the love of his life, Elsie, a recent immigrant from England. They would marry in 1957. Dave also had a deep appreciation of music, autos and auto racing, and craft boats. More than anything else, Dave was a devoted husband and father to his two children. He had a gentle soul, believed in the sanctity of life and in being true to one’s own self. He imparted these values on his children.

The family would like to thank Team 1 Medicine and the Palliative Care Team at University Hospital for their care and compassion with Dave.

Cremation has taken place. Family and guests are invited to a Memorial Service on Wednesday, October 9^th, 2024 from 11:00-12:00pm at St. Annes Anglican Church (Byron), 1344 Commissioners Road West, London, ON. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Dave may be made to the Humane Society London & Middlesex, 624 Clarke Road, London, ON. Arrangements entrusted to A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

NOBLE, Crystal…

Unexpectedly as the result of an ATV accident, Crystal Darling Noble of Thorndale passed away on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at the age of 45. Crystal was the loving and supportive mother of Julia and Eric Ritchie. She was the cherished daughter of Dale Reade and Mark Noble (Susie), and the adored sister of Joshua Noble (Sonja). Crystal will also be fondly remembered by her aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and the father of her children, Don Ritchie.

Crystal was the ultimate hockey and soccer mom, loving every minute watching Julia and Eric’s sports. She was also an avid gardener, specializing in raising lavender, and raising Milly and Hughie her lovable Rotties.

Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Crystal’s Life will be held at the Lions Active Living Centre Room #2 (Dorchester Arena), 2066 Dorchester Road, Dorchester, on Sunday, October 6, 2024 from 1-3 pm.

In Crystal’s memory, donations may be made to Cystic Fibrosis Canada, 1305-20 Eglinton Avenue West, Toronto, ON M4R 1K8. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

BESCH, John…

John passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, October 2, 2024 in his 102nd year. Beloved husband of the late Betty Besch (2017) for 69 years. Loving father of Christopher (Elizabeth) Besch and Ian Besch. Cherished gramps of Heather (Justin), Darryl (Erin), David, Ruth (Michael), Amy (Michael), Judy (Robert) and their families. Cremation has taken place and a private family interment will be held at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, London. In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s memory may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada or a personal favourite charity. Arrangements entrusted to A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

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BECKER, Helmut…

February 24, 1931-September 26, 2024

Helmut was born in Castor, Alberta and grew up in Saskatchewan. He showed a keen enthusiasm and talent for visual art from an early age, and that became the major pursuit of his working life, combined with teaching therein. He attained academic positions at the Nova Scotia School of Art and the University of Calgary but passed the major part of his career as a professor at the University of Western Ontario. His achievements in graphic art and in the making and use of handmade paper are outstanding. His enthusiasm and example inspired many students and fellow professionals. He was also a friend, an entertainer and a fount of diverse knowledge to many who knew him, with wide interests and novel views, a man rich in human kindness and empathy. He will be deeply missed by students and colleagues, by his many nephews and nieces, grand nephews and grand nieces, and most of all by his surviving siblings-his older brother Henry Aron Becker and his younger brother George Frederick Becker. Helmut died quickly and peacefully. We brothers are grateful to the attending personnel at the University Hospital for their exemplary care. A Celebration of Life will be held on October 20, 2024 from 1 to 3 pm at the Westland Gallery, 156 Wortley Road, London, Ontario. In lieu of flowers, Helmut asked that people donate to cancer research of their choice. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

SHARPE, John “Sharpie”…

Peacefully at home, with his wife by his side, John “Sharpie” Sharpe of London passed away on Saturday, September 28, 2024 in his 75th year. Beloved husband of Lisa Trinnear for 39 years. Cherished brother of Fred (Marg) Sharpe of West Lorne and Paul Sharpe of Mount Brydges, and brother-in-law of Wendy Sharpe of Port Stanley and Dan (Nelsa) Trinnear of Etobicoke. Adored uncle of Michael, Lindsay (Jason), David (Brittany), Sarah, David (Lucy), Hayley, Samantha, Nicole (Patrick) and Dylan. Sharpie will also be greatly missed by his many great nieces and nephews, extended family, and his countless friends. Predeceased by his parents Jack Merton and Mary Jeanette (nee Wanless) Sharpe.

John, affectionately known as Sharpie, was a vibrant presence in both the golfing and musical communities. A dedicated member (50 years) and employee of Echo Valley Golf Course, he spent countless weekends perfecting his swing on the greens. Beyond golf, Sharpie was an avid jazz enthusiast, with a passion for drumming that resonated deeply within him. As the music editor of Scene Magazine, he showcased his love for the genre, earning him the nickname “The Razor” in the musical circles he frequented. Sharpie was a true “Sharpe”, sharing his pack rat tendencies with his two brothers, collecting many memories and treasures.

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be held at a later date. In Sharpie’s memory, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 500-55 St. Clair Avenue West, Toronto, ON M4V 2Y7. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

ALLISON, Kevin…

Unexpectedly at home, Kevin Allison passed away on Monday, September 23, 2024 at the age of 48. Predeceased by his parents Margaret (nee Anderson) (1991) and John Allison (1997). Loving brother of Norman (Brandy), Joseph, David, the late Wendy, Debbie, Lynn and Eleanor. Kevin was also a cherished uncle and an incredible friend to many.

Kevin had a knack for working on cars, often spending his weekends and days off tinkering with different engines and models. He loved biking along the trails and enjoying the fresh air, but also embraced the gamer life. While he was generally quiet, he had an outgoing side that shone through when he was with friends or sharing his latest automotive project.

Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Friday, September 27, 2024 from 6:00-8:30 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at 11:00 am at Mount Pleasant Cemetery, 303 Riverside Drive, London. Please meet at the cemetery office for 10:45 am. In memory of Kevin, donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Gill, Harry “Rae”

Peacefully on Friday, September 20, 2024 at University Hospital, London, Rae passed away 2 days shy of his 93^rd birthday. Loving husband of Xihui Zhang. Cherished Dad to Gary, Scott, Lori-Ann and Mary-Lynn. Dear Papa to Tom and Corey; Megan; Melissa and Courtney; Sam and Matthew. Great-grandfather of Danni-Lyn, Robbie, Addie, Isla and Morgan; Kingsley, Renee, Stella and Violet; and Madison, Ashlyn, Lukas, Jake, Ryleigh, Hadlee and Hayden.Fondly remembered as “Uncle Rae” to Xihui’s family in Changsha, China. Predeceased by his wives (Violet, and Betty-Lou), grand-daughter (Michelle), and brother (Grant).

Rae worked as a plumber, electrician and farmer but also expertly renovated several homes in London. In earlier years he enjoyed flying and boating, and throughout his life loved ballroom dancing, square dancing and was also a member of the Mason’s. At 80-years of age, he travelled to China to marry Xihui and made many trips to see her there until she came to London, Canada in 2018.

Family and friends are welcome to visitation at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London on Wednesday, September 25 from 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm. Private interment in Woodland Cemetery, London. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Rae may be made to a charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com.

Beacom, James “Jim”
1937-2024

Passed away peacefully at his residence with family by his side on Friday, September 6, 2024, in his 88th year. Beloved husband of Geraldine Beacom (nee Vacher) for 50 years. Dear father of Christine Beacom (Rodney), Steven Leonard and Jeffrey Leonard (Carolynn). Predeceased by his sons Michael and David. Loving papa of David (Heather), James (Sarah-Jane), Karley (Nick), Victoria (Javier), Nicole (Taylor), Charlene (Jeremy), Hakan, and Tehya. Loved by 14 great-grandchildren. Cherished brother of Joan Cooper and Elizabeth Beacom. Predeceased by his parents John and Myrtle. Predeceased by his siblings, Jack Beacom, Ivan Beacom, Rhoda Green, Jacqueline Amos, Helen Green, Florence Shaw, Beverly Kilby, Carol Fitzsimmons and Daisy Hodgetts. Jim will be sorely missed by his family and will be held dear in the hearts of many extended family members and friends. A family visitation will be held on Monday, September 9, 2024, from 3:00 – 4:00 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

GORMAN, Harold F…

Peacefully, with his loving family by his side, Harold F. Gorman passed away at Dearness Home, London, September 4, 2024 in his 89th year. Predeceased by his loving parents Harold W. and Lily Gorman. Harold is survived by his siblings Rick Gorman (the late Karen), Linda Quinn (Garnet) and Bob Gorman (Becki). He was adored and loved by his nieces, nephews and their families. Predeceased by his niece Kim and nephew Brad. A special thanks to Lisa, Phillip and the Alice Saddy Association for their help and support with Harold over many years and to the friends that took Harold to his beloved hockey and baseball games. Thank you to his Dearness Home family for their love, care, and support. Visitation will be held on Friday, September 13, 2024 from 10-11 am followed by the funeral service at 11 am at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. Private interment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. In memory of Harold, donations can be made to the Alice Saddy Association, 457 King Street, London, ON N6B 1S8 or a charity of your choice. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com