Obituary of Enid Henderson

<p><strong>ENID DOREEN HENDERSON</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Enid passed away suddenly at her home in Toronto on Thursday, January 12, 2017 in her 89th year. Predeceased by John Henderson, her husband of 53 years, Enid was the beloved mother of Martin (Suzanne) and Philip (Kim) and proud grandmother of D&rsquo;Arcy, Johnny, Jamie, Matthew and Nicola.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Born in 1928 to George and Gladys Smithson in West Hartlepool, County Durham, England, Enid attended Eldon Grove Grammar School for Girls before training as a legal secretary. She was an avid cyclist, competing in both single and tandem races for her club throughout the county. Enid was also an accomplished singer, performing regularly in local music halls, and enjoyed dance of all kinds. As the second world war intensified, she refused to be evacuated and remained in West Hartlepool to help care for her ailing father, even if it meant cycling home from school during air raids. In 1951, Enid married John Henderson and the couple moved to Bishop&rsquo;s Stortford, Hertfordshire, England. John was the love of her life and her lifelong ballroom-dancing partner.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Enid and John immigrated to Canada in 1956, settling in Toronto and ultimately Thornhill, where they raised their sons, Martin and Philip. The young family was joined in Canada by Enid&rsquo;s mother in 1957. Enid and John enjoyed life in Toronto, socializing with family and friends often at Thornhill Golf &amp; Country Club when not dancing at Caf&eacute; de l&rsquo;Auberge. Enid had a lovely personality, easily made others feel comfortable and was naturally the life of the party. Full of empathy and quick to care for others, she looked after her elderly mother while raising two children. Enid&rsquo;s greatest joy was her family. In retirement, Enid and John moved twice in 10 years to be closer to their grandchildren. Enid was a devoted wife and a wonderful mother and grandmother, leaving her family and friends with many happy memories.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>A private family service will be held. For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to the North York General Foundation in support of Specialized Geriatric Services at North York General Hospital or a charity of your choice. Condolences, photographs and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymilesnewbigging.com.</p>