Services & Obituaries

In Loving Memory of Norma Robinson

Norma Robinson, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 24, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and family.
Born on April 5, 1930, in Port Stanley, Norma lived a remarkable 94 years. Moving from her family farm at the age of 14, she enrolled herself at Alma College in St. Thomas in 1944. Norma went on to become the first female Area Comptroller of Canada Bread in London, and was proud to have worked there for many years. Norma was a beloved mother, grandmother and great grandmother, who cherished her family above all else. She married Harley in 1986, and together they enjoyed their garden, golf and travel. Her legacy lives on through her children, Jo Anne Brodie (the late Gary) and Rob Fulton (Margaret) her grandchildren Heather Brodie (Jeremy Patterson) and Evan Brodie (Jill Bennett), and her 2 great-grandchildren Sal and Ray who were the light of her life. Her family invites all who knew and loved her to a celebration of her life, to be held on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London in the chapel at 10:30 am, with visitation 30 minutes prior at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society in her memory. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

COPELAND, Christopher..

It is with deep sadness that our family announces the sudden passing of Christopher “Big Sexci” Blair Copeland on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, in his 33rd year.  Chris has reunited with his sister Lindsay.  Chris is survived by his mother Wendy Copeland, his father Tod Williams, his wife Breanne Fralick-Copeland, his two children Lillian Katherine and William Reginald, his siblings Paige Erica, Lucas Daniel, his grandparents Sharon Williams, Lynda Copeland and Bill Copeland, and many uncles, aunts, cousins and friends. Chris was a loving son, protective big brother, a superhero to his kids, caring husband, and a larger than life friend to all that he met.  We will always love you Chris!  Visitation will be held at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London on Monday, October 28, 2024, from 2:00-4:00 pm and 7:00-9:00 pm. Cremation to follow. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

GILMOUR, William “Bill”…

Peacefully at home, on Thursday, October 17, 2024, William “Bill” Gilmour passed away in his 92nd year. Beloved husband of the late Susan (nee McDonald) Gilmour (2007) for 52 wonderful years, Bill leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and service. He was the devoted father of Marg Hermann, Carole Gilmour, Tony Gilmour, and Michele Pegg and her husband Dave, all of London.

A proud grandfather, Bill cherished his time with his grandchildren Paul (Tanya), Krista, Jenny (Jarrett), Nathan (Kim), Damian (Andrea), Adrian and Lily, and was overjoyed to be a great-grandfather to Maiev, Maisie, Alexander, Athena, Rhea, Gray, Dräco, and Laughlin. Predeceased by his parents and all of his siblings, Bill will also be deeply missed by many nieces, nephews, family, friends, and neighbors both here and in Scotland.

Bill grew up in abject poverty but rose to become a formidable advocate for others, always standing up against injustice. During his long career at Ford, Bill was a proud member of the union, where he helped thousands of workers secure their rights. He carried the same passion for equality into his personal life, marching in rallies and standing in solidarity with those seeking fairness.

A lifelong athlete, Bill excelled in boxing and soccer, and his competitive spirit extended to table tennis and pickleball, though nothing came before his family. He was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and his love for his family was unparalleled.

Bill’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be remembered for his incredible storytelling, his kindness, and his passion for the world around him and those he loved and served. Cremation has taken place, and a memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at 2 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, with future inurnment in Woodland Cemetery, London.

In memory of Bill, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners, 435 Windermere Road, London, ON N5X 2T1. Online condolences, memories, and photographs can be shared at www.amgfh.com

Click here to view Susan’s obituary https://amgfh.com/obituaries/119173/

GENEST, Paul Maurice

Suddenly on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at his residence in Kearney, Paul passed away in his 72nd year. Beloved brother of Lorraine (Rick) Martin, David (Dawn), and Mark Genest. Predeceased by his parents Maruice and Beverly Genest. From a young age, Paul had a love for hockey. He cherished memories of playing the game in his youth and attending games with his father, experiences that stayed with him throughout his life. The sport connected him to his past and brought him joy that he often shared with those close to him. Paul also had a lifelong passion for classic cars, which he lovingly shared with his brother Mark. In addition to his many passions, Paul had a soft spot for cats. His home was always filled with their warmth and companionship, and they brought him comfort throughout his life. As a carpenter, Paul took immense pride in his work, leaving behind not only physical structures but also a legacy of craftsmanship, dedication, and a strong work ethic. His hands built more than just homes; they built connections, memories, and a life filled with meaning. Family and friends are invited to visitation on Thursday, October 17, 2024, from 12:00 pm until 2:00 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. A funeral service to celebrate Paul’s life will take place at 2:00 pm in the funeral home chapel. For those unable to attend the service will be live streamed on the AMG Funeral Home YouTube channel. Interment in Woodland Cemetery, London.  In lieu of flowers as an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Paul may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.  Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com 

KAY, Paul Jeffrey (PK)

With his family by his side, Paul passed away peacefully on Friday, October 4, 2024 at the age of 69.

Beloved husband of Anne (MacEwan). Proud father of Laura Mitchell, and Daniel Kay and his wife Jessica. Adored by his grandchildren Jakob and Kayla Mitchell, and Aubrey, Leigha, Elise and Brynn Kay. Dear son of Shirley Cookson, and brother and brother-in-law of Robert and Bonnie Kay, Patti and Joe Hanrath, Scott and Marci Kay, Beth and Paul Feagan and Scott and Mary Jo MacEwan. Fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his father Don Kay.

Paul’s true passion was his family. He watched with pride as his children grew up to be as strong, independent, caring and compassionate as he was. He took delight in watching his grandchildren experience life and taught them his ingrained values by example.

Paul had an adventurous childhood growing up in Clinton. Moving to London in 1973, he worked for a variety of cable TV and telecommunication companies including Lorron Technologies Inc. where he was a partner. With the moniker the King of Cable, through the years he taught and mentored many apprentices and formed wonderful friendships in the industry.

Sports played an integral role in Paul’s life. From the time he was six until just a few months ago he was on the ice shooting and scoring! Second to hockey came golf where he enjoyed spending time on the links with his family and friends. His enthusiasm for sports carried over to his years spent coaching many hockey and soccer teams.

Whether relaxing in his clubhouse, working in the garden or cruising down the highway listening to tunes in his Jeep, Paul loved life. Through it all, he treasured his family and friends, and enlivened many a get together with his quick wit, sense of humour and colourful stories. His memory will live on with those who had the privilege of knowing him. So give those you love a hug and raise a glass to PK.

As an expression of sympathy, in lieu of flowers donations in memory of Paul may be made to London Health Sciences Foundation in support of The Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre lhsf.ca/in memory or to a charity of your choice.

Visitation will be held at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, on Friday, October 18, 2024 from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, where the celebration of life will take place on Saturday, October 19, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Stewart, Peggy

Peggy passed away peacefully at the age of 76 on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at Victoria Hospital, London, Ontario, with family and friends by her side.

Peggy was the supportive sister of Barbara Dawson and proud aunt of Rob and DeDe. She is predeceased by parents William and Genevieve Stewart. Peggy had a large extended family and many friends in Canada, the United States, and England.

Peggy began her career in health care at Victoria Hospital and University Hospital in London Ontario and at the Maudsley Hospital in London, England. After this, she was the successful small business owner of a neighbourhood corner store and a home health care business. In her later years, Peggy began a new career as a real estate agent with Royal LePage with a special interest in accessible homes for the disabled.

Family and friends are welcomed for visitation at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London on Friday, October 11, 2024, from 7:00-9:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2024, in the chapel of A. Millard George Funeral Home at 10:00 a.m. For those unable to attend, the service will be live streamed on the AMG Funeral Home YouTube channel. Followed by internment at Woodland Cemetery, London.

As an expression of sympathy, donations in the memory of Peggy may be made to Kiwanis Club of Forest City-London or the Brain Injury Association of London.

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

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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