Services & Obituaries

EDMONDS, Barbara…

Peacefully, on Friday, February 14, 2025, Barbara Edmonds (née Pittaway) left the Palliative Care Unit at Parkwood Hospital and entered the presence of her Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Barb was born on January 6, 1943, and grew up in South London. She attended Tecumseh Elementary School and South Collegiate Institute. She graduated from the University of Western Ontario (UWO) in 1965 with an Honours Degree in Mathematics, and in 1966 with an Althouse College of Education certificate. Barb taught at Oakridge Secondary School in London, and Jarvis Collegiate Institute in Toronto.

Barb loved math and music, receiving her associate degree in piano from the Royal Conservatory of Toronto. Always looking for a challenge, in 1999 she decided to learn to play the oboe. The New Horizons Band was just starting at UWO, and she convinced its leaders, who assured her the oboe was too difficult, to provide an oboe instructor. She was a charter member of the band and continued playing her oboe for twenty years.

A hardworking and generous host, Barb’s way of caring for people was special. Whether hosting one or ten or one hundred, Barb made sure her guests left full – stomachs full of great food, brains full of stimulating discussions and, if the garden was in season, arms full of fresh vegetables. And one cannot forget the many, many UWO medical students who (almost) looked forward to writing exams because they knew they’d be served one of the thousands of cookies she baked for them over the years.

Breast cancer was diagnosed in 1990 and with treatment Barb survived. AML (Acute Myeloid Leukemia) was diagnosed in February 2019, and Barb was told it was unlikely she would see 2020. Treatment induced a remission and gave her another 6 years and she was now considered to be an outlier. Last fall she was unable to return home after being admitted to hospital with pneumonia and then developing other infections. With the care and support of the wonderful staff and physicians at Parkwood Palliative Care Unit she maintained the label of outlier when she survived in palliative care longer than anyone expected. Even during the hardest times, she did her best to cheerfully greet everyone.

She is survived by Merrill Edmonds, her beloved husband of over 58 years, as well as her two children Brian and Marcia, and three grandchildren – all of whom she loved dearly and liked to spoil. She is missed by her sister Lucille Robson. Barb was a special friend to many who will miss her quick mind, kindness, hospitality, and her musical skills.

The Celebration of Life for Barb Edmonds will be held at the Ivey Spencer Leadership Centre, 551 Windermere Road, London, on Sunday, May 4th, 2025 from 2 to 4 pm. After entering through the gates off Windermere Road, keep to the right and follow the road that goes to the right and down the hill to the back of the building. If necessary passengers may be dropped off at the back main doors just off the circular drive and parking is available (dropping passengers at the front main doors will require a long walk). The Celebration will take place in the Garden Room on the corner of the building at driveway level on the left. Family members and remembrances of Barb will be inside the Garden Room and, weather permitting, outside on the patio and lawn. We also hope to have a wind quintet playing during the first hour. At 3 pm an informal session in the Garden Room will include a video of Barb’s life and provide an opportunity for anyone to recall a favorite memory of Barb. If you would like to say something let us know at (barb.e.celebration@gmail.com) and we will be sure to give you an opportunity to speak. If you would like to provide a reflection but cannot attend or just prefer to not speak, please forward your reflection so it can be read at the celebration to (barb.e.celebration@gmail.com).

As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Barb may be made to the Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre (formerly London Regional Cancer Program), the Parkwood Institute Palliative Care Program or the Mission Services of London. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

JARMAN, Sandra…

On Saturday, February 15, 2025, Sandra Jarman passed away with family by her side at Victoria Hospital, London in her 82nd year. Loving wife of Donald Jarman for over 61 years. Cherished mother of Marilyn Irish (William) of Raleigh, NC, Douglas Jarman (Wendy) of London, and Colleen Taylor (Scott) of Delaware. Dear grandmother of Matthew and Amelia Irish, Scott and Andrew Jarman and Emily, Lucas and Rebecca Taylor. Loved by her seven great-grandchildren. Also missed by her sister Deanna Palmer. Predeceased by her brother James Tripp. Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 from 7-9 pm and on Thursday, February 20, 2025 from 12-12:45 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, where the funeral service will be held Thursday at 1 pm. Interment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. In memory of Sandra, donations may be made to the Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre (formerly London Regional Cancer Program), c/o London Health Sciences Foundation, 747 Base Line Road East, London, ON N6C 2R6 or to the Church of the Epiphany, 11 Briscoe Street West, London, ON N6J 1L9. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

BARNUM, Harriett “Joan” …

Peacefully on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at Victoria Hospital, London, Joan passed away in her 83rd year. Beloved wife of Lyon Barnum for 58 years. Mother of Sara, and Cameron (Klara). Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at St. James Westminster Church, 115 Askin Street, London, on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at 2:00 pm. As an expression of sympathy in lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Joan may be made to Participation House Support Services, www.phsscommunity.com. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at amgfh.com

BROADFOOT, Marion E….

On Monday, February 10, 2025, Marion Broadfoot (nee MacArthur) passed away peacefully at the age of 82. She is survived by her husband of 58 years, The Venerable James R. Broadfoot, daughter Melissa, son Paul (Diane) and grandson Connor. She is also survived by her brother Tom (Hannah) MacArthur of Stratford.

When Marion met James, she was a dedicated teacher who positively impacted many young lives. She later stepped away from teaching to support her husband when he became a priest in the Anglican Church. Marion will be remembered for the joy she shared with those around her, her passion for music – often singing in church choirs – her creativity, and her deep love for family and friends. She and James shared a love of travel, exploring destinations across Canada, the United States and Scotland, with Hawaii being her favourite place.

The family is grateful for the care Marion received from the staff at Extendicare. Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Marion’s Life will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at 2 pm at St. Michael and All Angels Anglican Church, 397 Springbank Drive, London, with visitation 2 hours prior (12-2 pm). Future interment in Baird’s Cemetery, Brucefield. Please no flowers. Donations 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

STERLING, Charles “Charlie”…

Peacefully at University Hospital, London, on Thursday, February 6, 2025, Charles “Charlie” Sterling passed away in his 91st year. Beloved husband of Wilhelmina Anna (nee Verburgt) Sterling for nearly 50 years. Dear step-father of Michael Van Aarsen and his wife Cathy of London, Mary Ann Wragg and her husband Bill of London, and Tom Van Aarsen and his wife Lori of Cambridge. Much loved Grandpa of Tiana, Krista, Alicia, Ian, Marcus, Jenna, Brian, Stephen, Katie, Amy and Tina and Opa of 18 great-grandchildren. Dear brother of Penny Sumner. Predeceased by his step-son Henry John, daughter-in-law Susan, great-grand-daughter Claire, and brother Chris. Visitation will be held on Monday, February 10, 2025 from 1:00-1:45 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, where the funeral service will be held in the chapel at 2:00 pm. Cremation to follow with future interment in St. Peter’s Cemetery, London. In memory of Charlie, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 500-55 St. Clair Avenue West, Toronto ON M4V 2Y7. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

SMITH, Bryan Edward Robert…

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Bryan Smith on December 21, 2024, in London, Ontario, at the age of 47. Bryan is survived by his daughters, Ptolemia “Mia” Smith and Aegidia Smith, and sister Jessica Smith. Predeceased by his parents Reverend William Smith and Christina (Rose).

Bryan loved to read and discuss history, and religion. He took great pride in researching his family’s genealogy work. He is a 2014 Alumni of Huron College where he studied History and Religion.

Following Bryan’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A service will be held on Friday, February 7, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. in the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. There is no visitation prior. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

WILSON, Lewis “Jak”…

Lewis “Jak” Wilson of Windsor, Ontario passed peacefully in hospital in London, Ontario on January 22, 2025 in his 79^th year. Jak dearly loved his children Sean Wilson, Shannon Wilson and Ian Hofer, and was the proudest “Gumpa” of his grandkids Erik (Megan), William (Kacie), James and Kate Hofer. Jak was the beloved brother of the late Connie Gilbert of Windsor and Barbara Cotton of Barrie, and will be greatly missed by siblings Jeff Wilson of Windsor, David and wife Shelly Wilson of Barrie, and Beth Brown of Sarnia. Jak adored his nieces and nephews Jacqueline and Paul, David and Shelley, Bob and Jess, Matt and Staci, Meredith and Chris, Greg and Allison, Leslie and Glenn, Taylor, and Erin, and he was immensely proud of his wonderful great-nieces and nephews.

Jak was an avid planner and will be remembered for his organization of student and alumni events at Vincent Massey Secondary School in Windsor, and community events for his friends and neighbours at the Marshall Street Apartments in London. Jak’s life passion was being a coach, and his memories will continue on the football fields and golf courses of Windsor and London.

Cremation has taken place. In accordance with Jak’s wishes, there will be no visitation. Friends and guests are invited to join the family for a memorial service on Friday, February 7, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. in the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. Donations may be made to SickKids Foundation in memory of Jak’s beloved granddaughter Kate. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

ROVITHIS, Dean…

Peacefully on Monday, January 27, 2025, at Victoria Hospital, London, Dean passed away in his 79th year. Beloved husband of Marilyn for 35 years. Adored father of Aurora (John) Dascanio of Roanoke, Texas and Gregory Rovithis of Mesquite, Texas. Dear stepfather of Aaron Ukrainetz of London, Ontario and Tanja Ukrainetz of New Brunswick. Cherished grandfather of Maddy (Nick), Steffi (Jordyn), Lilly and Nick. Loving step-grandfather of Bradley, Howard, and Ruth. Great-grandfather of Houston and Scarlet. Dear brother of Viviane of Yukon, Oklahoma. Predeceased by his parents Aliki and Manos, and brother George. Dean will be lovingly remembered by many extended family members and friends. Dean had a zest for life, finding joy in dancing, savoring good food, and traveling extensively with Marilyn across Canada, the United States, Europe, and South America. A passionate sports enthusiast, he especially loved hockey and cherished his season tickets to cheer on the London Knights. Dean was proud to serve as a member-at-large for the Canadian Auto Workers and found great fulfillment volunteering at his grandchildren’s school. A devoted member of his Greek church community whenever he was able, Dean’s adventurous spirit and love for life left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. Cremation has taken place. A private family gathering will be held to honour his memory. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Dean may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or the Canadian Cancer Society. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

SIMPSON, Robert Mark
1935-2025
With family nearby, Bob passed away peacefully on January 25, 2025. He leaves behind his beloved wife of more than 66 years, Barbara and his children Carrie and her husband Owen, Bill and his wife Sharon, and Benjamin. He will be dearly missed by his grandchildren Kaitlyn and Christopher. He is survived by his sister Dorene Hogg and his brother-in-law William Bradfield and predeceased by his sister Donna Ernest and his brother-in-law Kenneth Hogg. Bob was born in Ingersoll, Ontario to Jean and Mark Simpson. Bob graduated from the University of Western Ontario Business School and qualified as a Chartered Accountant. He was a partner at KPMG and predecessor firms. Bob was a charter member of Westmount Presbyterian Church where he served as elder, clerk of session and treasurer. He served as president of the London branch of the Canadian Red Cross and Treasurer and VP of the Ontario Division. Bob was an avid curler and longtime member of the Highland Golf and Country Club. Friends and family will be received on Thursday, January 30, 2025, from 11:30 am until 12:15 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The funeral will follow in the chapel at 12:30 pm with Reverend Tim Raeburn-Gibson officiating. Those who wish to make a memorial donation are asked to consider Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation & Education Centre. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

BRILLINGER, Bruce…

Bruce Allan Brillinger died peacefully at his home on January 23, 2025, one month before his 88th birthday. His beloved wife Sandra Jane Mackenzie and his eldest daughter were by his side. He was devoted to Sandra, his wife of 30 years, who called him Bruce Man. Bruce loved to spend time at his cabin near St. Jacobs and in nature. He delighted in his connections with the Old Order Mennonite community in the St. Jacobs area. In his younger years, he took many trips by motorcycle across Canada and into the United States. He is predeceased by his son Joe Brillinger and brother-in-law Henry Edwin (Teddy) Mackenzie, and is survived by daughters Marla, Renata and Laura Brillinger, son-in-law Ian Callbeck, granddaughter Lucy Coleman, brother Reverend Bob Brillinger, sister-in-law Sandy Brillinger, sister-in-law Barbara Mackenzie, and several nieces and nephews. Cremation will take place, and the family will have a private gathering. Donations in Bruce’s memory can be made to the Terry Fox Foundation, 200-250 Ferrand Drive, Toronto, ON M3C 3G8. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

“I would love to live
Like a river flows,
Carried by the surprise
Of its own unfolding.”
– John O’Donohue