Obituary of Jean Thomson
After raging against the dying of the light for as long as she could, Jean passed away in her 92nd year on October 6, 2021. Jean is predeceased by her parents Bill and Winnifred, sisters Ruth (Ed) and Joyce (John). She will be sorely missed by her nephews Gregg LaLiberte (Gracelyn), Eric (Jennifer), John, and Steven Helston (Tracey), her niece Leslie Helston (Mike), and her late niece Suzanne Brydon (Gord) as well as her great nieces and nephews Martín, Charlotte, Oscar, Danica, Sierra, Simone, Claire, Mackenzie and Sydney, and great-great nephews Kai, Sullivan and Archie.
A lifelong Torontonian, Jean was brought up in the East End during the Depression. She was the valedictorian of Riverdale Collegiate in 1948, and graduated from U of T's University College in 1952, majoring in English Language and Literature. Jean taught French and English at York Mills Collegiate Institute from 1955-87, inspiring generations with her love of languages.
She led an active life after retiring, turning her backyard into a showplace of various plants and trees, and a haven for birds. She was active in St Timothy's Anglican Church, singing in the choir as long as she could, then helping with their landscaping and bookings. She travelled the world in her earlier years, with the South of France and England being special favourites.
Jean’s long-time caregiver Geline was at her side constantly during her final years. She was supported
by her friends as well as numerous neighbours on the street she lived on for over 50 years. A special thanks is owed to the doctors, nurses and other staff at Sunnybrook Hospital.
A private visitation will be held at Humphrey Funeral Home A.W. Miles – Newbigging Chapel, 1403 Bayview Avenue (south of Eglinton Avenue East) from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 24th. Service to follow. Due to COVID restrictions with respect to the number of visitors, individuals wishing to attend should contact the family in advance. As a fervent supporter of wildlife both wild and domestic, contributions to the Nature Conservancy of Canada would be appreciated. Condolences may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.
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