Services & Obituaries

Peacefully on Sunday, January 7, 2024, at Victoria Hospital, London, Doug passed away in his 74th year after a short but fierce battle with cancer. Beloved husband of Anne-Marie (nee Budny) of 46 years. Loving and devoted father to Sonja (Joshua) Noble, Nikki Blacker and Jenny (Marcus) Berthelsen. Adored grandfather of Mason Blacker and Patrice Berthelsen. Dear brother of Lesley (Jim) McConnell and brother-in-law to Christine (Chris) Mach and Michael Budny. Predeceased by his infant sister Jennifer Lee. Doug will be sorely missed by many nieces and nephews. Doug’s legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him. His enduring love, wisdom, and the countless memories he created will continue to guide and inspire his family and friends. Though he may no longer be with us in person, his spirit remains in the love that binds his family and the warmth of his memory. Cremation has taken place. Family and friends are invited to a visitation that will be held at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, on Saturday, January 13, 2024, from 11:00 – 1:00 pm. A memorial service will follow at 1:00 pm in the funeral home chapel and a time of refreshments and fellowship to celebrate his life will follow at 2:00-4:00 pm. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Doug may be made to the Head and Neck Cancer Clinic at London Regional Cancer Program. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

PHILLIPS, Harold Charles “Phil”

Passed away at Parkwood Institute, London on Thursday, December 28, 2023, in his 95th year. Beloved husband of the late Marjorie L. (Rodway) Phillips. Dear brother of Jean and Paige. Predeceased by his brother Phil and his sisters Shirley, Jessie, Doreen, and Anne. He will be missed by many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

He was a truly remarkable man with a generous spirit, kind heart and has left a mark on the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know him. A longtime member of the Canadian Legion, The Mocha Shriners and the A.B.A.T.E Ontario, exemplified the values of service, camaraderie, and fellowship. His commitment to these organizations not only showcased his dedication to community involvement but also reflected his desire to contribute to the betterment of society. Through his involvement, he made long lasting friends and worked to support various charitable causes.

Cremation has taken place, and he will be laid to rest alongside his wife in Blyth Union Cemetery, Blyth, Ontario. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to Wellspring London and Region. Arrangements entrusted to A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

HANDYSIDES, John “Jack”

Peacefully on Saturday, December 30, 2023, at University Hospital, London, Jack passed away in his 80th year.  Beloved husband of Christine for 54 years. Loving father of Karen (Jason) Vary and James (Grace).  Dear grandpa of Claire and Owen Vary and Rain Handysides.  Predeceased by his parents Rita and Allan. He is survived by his brother-in-law Bill Roberton. Jack will be lovingly remembered by many extended family members and friends. Jack was a tinkerer extraordinaire who was always willing to lend a helping hand. Cremation has taken place. A celebration will be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

de VRIES, MARTIN…

Martin de Vries passed away peacefully at Parkwood Veteran’s Care, London, Ontario, the evening of December 23, 2023, in his 99th year.  Beloved husband of the late Johanna Adriana, proud father of the late Michael (late Helen Boutros), Martin Jr. (Florence) and Carol (late Steve) Jeffery and proud grandfather of Michael (Christine), Sheila, Mark (Kristin), David (Martha), Thomas and Jennifer; and proud great-grandfather of Andrew, Alexandra, Jaxon, Gavin, Michael, John and Georgina Helen.

Martin enlisted in the army in 1941, at age 16, to fight in WW2 and Korea.  He was a very quiet, reserved man, also known for his dry sense of humour and generous nature.  He was a brave man who faced many struggles and illnesses in life with dignity, and he cherished every moment spent with family and friends.

A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Kharal, all of the nurses, PSW’s, and staff at Parkwood for the excellent care, love, laughter and joy shown to our father throughout the years.  We would also like to thank the volunteers and residents for your   friendship, laughter and joy given to our father each day.

As per Martin’s wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service. In memory of Martin please do something kind for someone, buy a coffee, plant a tree, or make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Society Southwest Partners, Parkwood Veteran’s Care, or a charity of your choice.  Whatever has meaning to you and can be done with the thoughts of Martin. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

HULLEY, Mary “Bobbie”

Mary “Bobbie” Hulley, devoted mother, friend and bird watcher, passed away on December 26, 2023 at the age of 91.  Bobbie is missed dearly by her children Bob, Lorraine, Phil and Kathy, and cherished grandchildren, Jesse Hulley (Taryn Hnidan) and Maggie Hulley. Survived by sister-in-law Marion Mutton, many nieces and nephews, and countless friends.

Bobbie was predeceased by her beloved husband Ken Hulley, brothers Richard and Ross Mutton, and daughter-in-law Joanne Hulley.

With a passion for child development, Bobbie pioneered co-op daycare nursery schools and established Glendale Co-op Nursery and London Private Home Daycare. Bobbie pursued her passions for weaving, spinning, birdwatching, and delighted in Tuesday tea times with her dear friends Judi and Linda.

Bobbie’s family extends their heartfelt thanks to the Village of Glendale Crossing for the exceptional support and care.

Cremation has taken place. Bobbie’s immediate family will have a private get together to share our memories of her at a later date.  Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

EADIE, Charles “Chuck” David

Passed away at his residence in London, Ontario in his 76^th year. Chuck will be sadly missed by his daughters Kalyn Eadie (Thusanth) and Kendra Perlman (Steve), his grandchildren Sloane and Santosh, and extended family. Dear brother of Neil (Margaret), Marj Deyell (Brian) and brother-in-law of Marian. Predeceased by his beloved wife Rhoda, his brothers Mac and Don, and sister-in-law Mary. Fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews and their families.

As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Chuck may be made to the Humane Society London & Middlesex. Cremation has taken place. A private family celebration will be held to honour Chuck’s life. Arrangements entrusted to A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences may be shared at www.amgfh.com.

WILLIAMS, June…

Peacefully at Westmount Gardens Long Term Care, London, June Williams passed away on Monday, December 18, 2023 in her 93rd year. Beloved wife of the late Bill Williams (1987). Loving mother of Stephen Williams and his wife Loreen, Jim Williams and Jane Gristey (the late Rick). Cherished grandmother of 9, and great-grandmother of 11. Predeceased by her grandson Joe, her brothers William, Larry and Ralph and her sisters Mary and Patricia. Also fondly remembered by several nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Friday, December 22, 2023 from 10-11 am at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The funeral service will be held at 11 am in the funeral home chapel. Interment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. In memory of June, donations may be made to the Men’s Mission (Mission Services of London), 459 York Street, London, ON N6B 1R3 or the Heart & Stroke Foundation, 1200-2300 Yonge Street, Box 2414, Toronto, ON M4P 1E4. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

McGugan, Ruby
(nee Parsons)

On December 12th, peacefully at home, Ruby graduated from this life, 96 years after becoming daughter of the late Annas (Cornell) and Gordon Parsons.  Ruby was a loving and devoted mother to Marney and her husband Bill Warder, Peter McGugan (Wayne Reel) and Elizabeth Hentz. She is predeceased by their father Evan McGugan.  Ruby was grandmother to Lisi (Cody) and Christy Hentz.  Ruby will also be missed by her cherished cat Rupert.  She is predeceased by brothers Malcolm and Robert Parsons (Betty) and her sisters Verda Gregory (Dr. Martin Humphries) and Phyllis Uptigrove (Em). ‘Aunt Ruby’ is fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews.

Her children realize how lucky they are to have had such a warm, loving, devoted, witty mother.  Her love for entertaining and creative cooking for her family were among her greatest joys.  Ruby’s most significant currencies in life were kindness and gratitude. As she peacefully departed, her final words were, “I’m so grateful”.

Ruby was a volunteer at University Hospital for many years and often delivered her delicious meals to help neighbors and friends in need. In her 50’s, because of her love of flowers, she completed the Floral Design course at Guelph University and passionately practised her craft for many years in florists’ shops.  With daughter Marney, she championed Animalert, a non-profit animal rescue group that’s placed thousands of pets into loving homes. Her home was never without 4 legged friends and she fostered many cats and dogs while they waited for their “furever” family.  Donations, in memory of Ruby, may be made to Animalert Pet Adoptions.

Our tribute to Ruby happens Mother’s Day, May 12th at 1 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London.  Pink was her favorite colour and we invite everyone to be in the pink that day.

Compassionate, complimentary and warmly accepting of all who she encountered, her children gratefully release their wonderful and elegant mother from a memorable life well lived.

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

BLACK, Molly…

Peacefully surrounded by her family on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, Molly Black went to be with her Lord and Saviour, whom she served for most of her 93 years. Beloved sister of James Hanley (Alexis) and Edward Hanley. Dear sister-in-law of Jim Steele, Valerie Black, and Edna Hanley. Loving Aunt to 10 nieces and nephews and 13 great-nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her siblings Hessie Steele, Joseph Black, and Francis Hanley.

Born in Ballyclare, Northern Ireland and immigrated to Canada in 1958. Molly was involved with teen girls in Girls’ Life Brigade and teaching Sunday School.

A private burial at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, London. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at 2:00 pm, at Hillside Church, 138 Thomson Road, London.

As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the charity of your choice. A. Millard George Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

“I am not skilled to understand.
What God has willed, what God has planned;
I only know at His right hand stands One Who is my Saviour”

LAWSON, Betty…

May 2, 1923 – December 9, 2023

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Betty Lawson in her 101st year on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at home surrounded by family.

She was born in St. Mary’s, Ontario to Charles and Adeline Hepburn (nee Vessie). She was the eldest of their 6 children and played a huge part in helping raise them. Wife of the late John Lawson (1998). Cherished and loving mother of Jacqueline Mallett (Bill), Pat Jenkins (Bill), the late David, and Mary Koebel (the late Bob). Mother-in-law of Joanne. Loving grandmother of 9 and great-grandmother of 18. In her later years, she met Leo Donohue. Together, they enjoyed square dancing, going on trips to Florida and Arizona, and enjoying life together for many years.

She taught all of us many tools for success. We will always carry with us her courage, determination, ambition, monetary skills and her overwhelming desire for cleanliness, organization and thriftiness. She was impeccable with her appearance and was beautiful right to the end. We will all miss her dearly.

Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Thursday, December 14, 2023 from 1-2 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The funeral service will be held at 2 pm in the funeral home chapel. Cremation to follow with interment in Dorchester Union Cemetery, London. In lieu of flowers, donations in Betty’s memory may be made to the Humane Society London & Middlesex, 624 Clarke Road, London, ON N5V 3K5 or a charity of your choice. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com