Ottawa loses Community Stalwart and Fashion Designer Daphne Spencer
Daphne Spencer transitioned from this life on Monday, May 4, 2020. She was the beloved wife of Sam, adored mother of Roy Davidson, Susan Davidson (daughter-in-law), late Lorna Palmer, Winsome Jones, and Carlton Jones (son-in-law). Cherished grandmother of Devon Davidson, Ryan Palmer, Andrew Palmer, Shantel Davidson, Christine Paulicin, Henoc Paulicin (grandson-in-law), Chelsea-Ann Jones, and great-grandmother of 6. She also leaves to mourn, her only surviving sibling, Sylvia McDermott, many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Daphne was predeceased by her parents Eaustace and Iris (nee Jones) Nicely. She was the proud proprietor of Ottawa's Touch of Class Fashion Gallery. Daphne inspired and empowered many of the youth in Ottawa through their involvement in her Touch of Class fashion shows. Some of the proceeds from her fashion shows were used to support different charities such as women against abuse, sickle cell, CHEO, and the marigold children's orphanage in Jamaica. Daphne has been recognized for her hard work and dedication by the Prime Minister and Governor-General of Canada. A funeral service was held Monday, May 11, 2020 at Kelly's Funeral Home in Orleans.
Published in The Ottawa Citizen on May 8, 2020 |
Ottawa mourns the passing of longtime community advocate Des Doran
In memoriam: Randolph Leon Archibald Coddett (sunrise: August 8, 1941 - sunset: June 26, 2018)
Ottawa's Caribbean community loses a revered matriarch and "pioneer":
Florence Robinson (June 3, 1922 - November 4, 2013)
Robinson, Florence
Peacefully on Monday, November 4, 2013 at the age of
91. Beloved wife of the late Milton. Loving mother of Keith Woleston
(Shirley), Violet Green, and Joanne Robinson (Trevor Bailey). Devoted
grandmother of Kelsey Francis, Tamara Woleston, Tyrone Bailey, Nigel
Woleston, Peter Green and Tristan Bailey. Cherished great-grandmother of
Keysean, Giovanni and Kingston Francis. Dear sister of Doris Holness and
predeceased by Eliza Wallace. Florence will be deeply missed by her
long-time friend Dorothy Harris and her family in Jamaica and Canada.
Funeral Service was held on the morning of Friday, November 8 at The Life Centre, 2214 Innes Road, followed by the interment at Beechwood Cemetery. Donations to the Alzheimer’s Society or the Canadian Cancer Society in Mrs. Robinson's memory would be appreciated.
-Published in The Ottawa Citizen, November 6, 2013. Photo taken by Sarah Onyango at 2012 JOCA brunch on Mrs Robinson's 90th birthday
From your arrival in Ottawa in 1955 right up to your very last days, you exemplified "community
spirit"! Your hospitality, warmth, love and care will never be forgotten! Thank you and "walk good", Mrs Robinson!
Peacefully on Monday, November 4, 2013 at the age of
91. Beloved wife of the late Milton. Loving mother of Keith Woleston
(Shirley), Violet Green, and Joanne Robinson (Trevor Bailey). Devoted
grandmother of Kelsey Francis, Tamara Woleston, Tyrone Bailey, Nigel
Woleston, Peter Green and Tristan Bailey. Cherished great-grandmother of
Keysean, Giovanni and Kingston Francis. Dear sister of Doris Holness and
predeceased by Eliza Wallace. Florence will be deeply missed by her
long-time friend Dorothy Harris and her family in Jamaica and Canada.
Funeral Service was held on the morning of Friday, November 8 at The Life Centre, 2214 Innes Road, followed by the interment at Beechwood Cemetery. Donations to the Alzheimer’s Society or the Canadian Cancer Society in Mrs. Robinson's memory would be appreciated.
-Published in The Ottawa Citizen, November 6, 2013. Photo taken by Sarah Onyango at 2012 JOCA brunch on Mrs Robinson's 90th birthday
From your arrival in Ottawa in 1955 right up to your very last days, you exemplified "community
spirit"! Your hospitality, warmth, love and care will never be forgotten! Thank you and "walk good", Mrs Robinson!
Ottawa, Canada and Trinidad & Tobago mourn the passing of renowned sports
doctor, Dr. Rudy Gittens (December 30, 1932 - September 18, 2013)
Dr. Rudolph Ormsby GITTENS
December 30, 1932 - September 18, 2013
It is with gladness, for a life well lived, that the GITTENS family announce the passing of Rudolph Ormsby Gittens. A man of integrity, respect and compassion, Rudy's brilliant mind, infectious humour and warm, caring manner left a lasting impact on all of us. Rudy leaves behind his wife Betty Hope, his sons Simon (Carole Desjardins), Garth (Wendy Newport), his grandchildren Alexandre, Bianca, Quinton & Noah. Rudy is survived by his brothers Clyde and Otto and sister Margaret. As per Rudy's wishes there was no funeral service. There wasa private family cremation. A celebration of Rudy's life was held on Saturday, October 12 at Parkdale United Church, 429 Parkdale Ave., in Ottawa. Funeral arrangements in the care of Kelly Funeral Home, Somerset Chapel, 585 Somerset St. W. Ottawa ON K1R 5K1 613-235-6712, www.kellyfh.ca The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the
wonderful staff at the Heart Institute. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to The Eldercare Foundation of Ottawa (www.eldercarefoundation.ca) appreciated.
Published in The Ottawa Citizen on September 21, 2013
December 30, 1932 - September 18, 2013
It is with gladness, for a life well lived, that the GITTENS family announce the passing of Rudolph Ormsby Gittens. A man of integrity, respect and compassion, Rudy's brilliant mind, infectious humour and warm, caring manner left a lasting impact on all of us. Rudy leaves behind his wife Betty Hope, his sons Simon (Carole Desjardins), Garth (Wendy Newport), his grandchildren Alexandre, Bianca, Quinton & Noah. Rudy is survived by his brothers Clyde and Otto and sister Margaret. As per Rudy's wishes there was no funeral service. There wasa private family cremation. A celebration of Rudy's life was held on Saturday, October 12 at Parkdale United Church, 429 Parkdale Ave., in Ottawa. Funeral arrangements in the care of Kelly Funeral Home, Somerset Chapel, 585 Somerset St. W. Ottawa ON K1R 5K1 613-235-6712, www.kellyfh.ca The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the
wonderful staff at the Heart Institute. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to The Eldercare Foundation of Ottawa (www.eldercarefoundation.ca) appreciated.
Published in The Ottawa Citizen on September 21, 2013
Ottawa - and Canada - mourns the passing of an eminent thespian: Mairuth Hodge Sarsfield (1925 - May, 7 2013)
Born and bred in Montreal, Mairuth Hodge Sarsfield, CQ, was an accomplished
broadcaster, civil servant, researcher, and best-selling author.
She worked as a host for the CBC, CTV, and TV Ontario and later became one of the first Black female members appointed to the Board of Directors of the CBC. For Canada's External Affairs Department, she worked on projects such as Expo 67 in Montreal and Expo '70 in Osaka, Japan, where she organized the Canadian
pavilion, for the respective world Expos. As a senior information officer for the United Nations Environment Programme in Nairobi, Kenya, she developed and launched a worldwide campaign known as "For Every Child a Tree".
She won numerous awards for theme coordination at World’s Fair pavilions for Canada, and was awarded the Chevalier a L’Ordre National du Québec in 1986, the National Congress of Black Women Foundation's First Literary Award for her novel No Crystal Stair. As well, the city of Cleveland designated a ‘Mairuth Sarsfield Day’ recognizing her work with the United Nations in Nairobi. Mairuth's Canadian best-selling novel No Crystal Stair, was chosen for inclusion in Canada
Reads 2005, championed by Olympic fencer Sherraine MacKay.
Mairuth passed away on May, 7 2013, at Mount Sinai Hospital, in Toronto,
following complications from a stroke. She was the mother of Jeremy Hodge (deceased, 1979) and noted Canadian pioneering film-maker Jennifer Hodge de Silva (deceased, 1989).
Mairuth is immediately mourned by Husband Dominick Sarsfield (89), Sister Lucille Cuevas (90) Granddaughter Zinzi de Silva (28), and widely mourned by many in the global community. A memorial of this amazing woman was held on Saturday, June 1st, at Christ Church Cathedral, Ottawa. Donations are being accepted to establish a national Mairuth Sarsfield Award. To send condolences, please contact [email protected]
broadcaster, civil servant, researcher, and best-selling author.
She worked as a host for the CBC, CTV, and TV Ontario and later became one of the first Black female members appointed to the Board of Directors of the CBC. For Canada's External Affairs Department, she worked on projects such as Expo 67 in Montreal and Expo '70 in Osaka, Japan, where she organized the Canadian
pavilion, for the respective world Expos. As a senior information officer for the United Nations Environment Programme in Nairobi, Kenya, she developed and launched a worldwide campaign known as "For Every Child a Tree".
She won numerous awards for theme coordination at World’s Fair pavilions for Canada, and was awarded the Chevalier a L’Ordre National du Québec in 1986, the National Congress of Black Women Foundation's First Literary Award for her novel No Crystal Stair. As well, the city of Cleveland designated a ‘Mairuth Sarsfield Day’ recognizing her work with the United Nations in Nairobi. Mairuth's Canadian best-selling novel No Crystal Stair, was chosen for inclusion in Canada
Reads 2005, championed by Olympic fencer Sherraine MacKay.
Mairuth passed away on May, 7 2013, at Mount Sinai Hospital, in Toronto,
following complications from a stroke. She was the mother of Jeremy Hodge (deceased, 1979) and noted Canadian pioneering film-maker Jennifer Hodge de Silva (deceased, 1989).
Mairuth is immediately mourned by Husband Dominick Sarsfield (89), Sister Lucille Cuevas (90) Granddaughter Zinzi de Silva (28), and widely mourned by many in the global community. A memorial of this amazing woman was held on Saturday, June 1st, at Christ Church Cathedral, Ottawa. Donations are being accepted to establish a national Mairuth Sarsfield Award. To send condolences, please contact [email protected]
CHARLES ROACH (September 18, 1933-October 2, 2012)
Charles Roach, LL.B, civil rights lawyer, community
activist, artist, musician and Caribana founder....We have lost a giant among the icons of black empowerment in Canada. May we and future generations emulate his unwavering quest for justice and unconditional pride in our black heritage.
Rest in perfect peace as you take your place among other esteemed freedom-fighters who have joined the ancestors.
There was a memorial for Charles Roach on Saturday, November 10, 2012, in Convocation Hall at the University of Toronto.
Read Charles Roach's profile in Who's Who in Black Canada
http://www.whoswhoinblackcanada.com/2012/09/06/charles-roach/
Lincoln MacCauley Alexander, PC CC OOnt CD QC
(January 21, 1922 – October 19, 2012)
Born in Toronto, Ontario, to West Indian immigrants, Lincoln Alexander first
distinguished himself in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. He graduated from Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto in 1953.
In 1968, he was elected to the Canadian House of Commons as the
Hamilton West representative for the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada, becoming Canada's first black MP in the House of Commons. He held the seat for four successive elections. Under the government of Joe Clark in 1979-1980, Alexander served as Minister of Labour. In 1985, on the advice of Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, Governor General Jeanne Sauvé appointed Lincoln Alexander the 24th Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, becoming the first black person to serve in
a vice-regal position in Canada. He served in that capacity from 1985 to 1991. In 1992, Mr. Alexander was awarded the Order of Ontario. He also became a Companion of the Order of Canada.
Mr Alexander's body lay in state in the main lobby at the legislative building at Queen's Park, in
Toronto, on Monday, October 22nd, then at Hamilton City Hall. A state funeral took place on Friday, October 26th, at Hamilton Place, in Alexander's hometown of Hamilton, Ontario.
Read his autobiography:
Go to School, You're a Little Black Boy: The Honourable Lincoln M. Alexander: A Memoir
Lincoln Alexander (Author), Herb Shoveller (Contributor)
Publication: Dundurn, Nov 4 2006
ISBN-10: 550026631
ISBN-13: 978-1550026634
Those of us who were privileged to meet Mr. Alexander and benefit from his enthusiastic
encouragement, unwavering support and wise counsel, mourn the passing of a great Canadian statesman, a champion for Canada's youth, a generous philanthropist and stellar community leader.....You have more than earned your rest, sir! We salute you!
distinguished himself in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. He graduated from Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto in 1953.
In 1968, he was elected to the Canadian House of Commons as the
Hamilton West representative for the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada, becoming Canada's first black MP in the House of Commons. He held the seat for four successive elections. Under the government of Joe Clark in 1979-1980, Alexander served as Minister of Labour. In 1985, on the advice of Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, Governor General Jeanne Sauvé appointed Lincoln Alexander the 24th Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, becoming the first black person to serve in
a vice-regal position in Canada. He served in that capacity from 1985 to 1991. In 1992, Mr. Alexander was awarded the Order of Ontario. He also became a Companion of the Order of Canada.
Mr Alexander's body lay in state in the main lobby at the legislative building at Queen's Park, in
Toronto, on Monday, October 22nd, then at Hamilton City Hall. A state funeral took place on Friday, October 26th, at Hamilton Place, in Alexander's hometown of Hamilton, Ontario.
Read his autobiography:
Go to School, You're a Little Black Boy: The Honourable Lincoln M. Alexander: A Memoir
Lincoln Alexander (Author), Herb Shoveller (Contributor)
Publication: Dundurn, Nov 4 2006
ISBN-10: 550026631
ISBN-13: 978-1550026634
Those of us who were privileged to meet Mr. Alexander and benefit from his enthusiastic
encouragement, unwavering support and wise counsel, mourn the passing of a great Canadian statesman, a champion for Canada's youth, a generous philanthropist and stellar community leader.....You have more than earned your rest, sir! We salute you!
Toronto honours Leonard Austin Braithwaite, CM OOnt
(October 23, 1923 – March 28, 2012)
Len Braithwaite was a politician, lawyer, businessman, scholar and a passionate advocate for youth. His political career began when he was
elected to the Etobicoke Board of Education and Etobicoke City Council. Mr. Braithwaite went on to become Ontario’s first Black Canadian MPP for Etobicoke North, thus becoming the first Black parliamentarian in Canada.
Read Leonard Braithwaite's biography at:
http://www.whoswhoinblackcanada.com/2012/06/17/leonard-braithwaite/
http://www.blackhistorysociety.ca/index.php?id=249&inner=true
http://www.blackhistorycanada.ca/profiles.php?themeid=20&id=14
elected to the Etobicoke Board of Education and Etobicoke City Council. Mr. Braithwaite went on to become Ontario’s first Black Canadian MPP for Etobicoke North, thus becoming the first Black parliamentarian in Canada.
Read Leonard Braithwaite's biography at:
http://www.whoswhoinblackcanada.com/2012/06/17/leonard-braithwaite/
http://www.blackhistorysociety.ca/index.php?id=249&inner=true
http://www.blackhistorycanada.ca/profiles.php?themeid=20&id=14
HERBERT H. CARNEGIE (November 8, 1919 - March 9, 2012)
Herb H. Carnegie, OC, a sports icon, hero, patriot,
gentleman, mentor, role model, philanthropist, activist, father, grandfather, community leader....May his Future Aces legacy continue to live on in all the young lives he has transformed.
Rest in peace, sir. You have truly earned your rest.
Read Herb Carnegie's profile in Who's Who in Black Canada
http://www.whoswhoinblackcanada.com/2012/03/15/herbert-carnegie/
gentleman, mentor, role model, philanthropist, activist, father, grandfather, community leader....May his Future Aces legacy continue to live on in all the young lives he has transformed.
Rest in peace, sir. You have truly earned your rest.
Read Herb Carnegie's profile in Who's Who in Black Canada
http://www.whoswhoinblackcanada.com/2012/03/15/herbert-carnegie/
Canada loses one of its most illustrious advocates for intercultural understanding...
William Commanda, OC (Anishinàbe name: Ojigkwanong) (November 11, 1913 - August 3, 2011) was an Algonquin elder and promoter of environmental stewardship. Grandfather Commanda served as Band Chief of the Kitigàn-zìbì Anishinàbeg First Nation from 1951 to 1970. Grandfather Commanda worked as a guide, trapper and woodsman, a birch bark canoe maker and craftsman. Grandfather Commanda was Keeper of several Algonquin Wampum Shell Belts which held records of prophecies, history, treaties and agreements. In 2008, he received the Order of Canada.
November 2009 Order of Canada citation:
William J. Commanda, O.C.
Maniwaki, Quebec
Officer of the Order of Canada
For his leadership as an elder who has promoted intercultural understanding and has raised awareness of the traditions and legacies of Canada’s Aboriginal people.
Thank you, Grandfather William Commanda for your vision and leadership. It was a privilege to even be in your presence, let alone to hear, in person, the valuable wisdom and lessons you were brought here to share. May you now rest in peace and may we, who are left, honour your legacy by applying what you've taught us. Amen.
More on Grandfather Commanda and his passing:
News Release from Union of Ontario Indians
Anishinabek mourn passing of Grandfather William Commanda
http://www.sootoday.com/content/news/full_story.asp?StoryNumber=53322
Algonquin elder William Commanda was honoured for efforts to bridge cultures
Kitigan Zibi, Que.
The Canadian Press
Published Wednesday, Aug. 03, 2011 10:18PM EDT
Last updated Wednesday, Aug. 03, 2011 10:20PM EDT
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/algonquin-elder-william-commanda-was-honoured-for-efforts-to-bridge-cultures/article2119112/
Keeper of the wampum: William Commanda, Algonquin elder
The subject of a CBC documentary, William Commanda was an aboriginal role model who died Wed. Aug. 3, at 97
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/story/2011/08/03/f-william-commanda-algonquin-elder.html
William Commanda, Algonquin spiritual leader, dead at 97
By Kristy Nease, The Ottawa Citizen August 4, 2011 7:45 AM
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/William+Commanda+Algonquin+spiritual+leader+dead/5199557/story.html#ixzz1U4AxrvUr
The black community's tribute to Grandfather William Commanda, OC...
Algonquin elder Grandfather William Commanda was a First nations Elder Statesman who, with humility and reverence for his fellow man and Mother Earth, devoted his entire life to promoting peaceful coexistence between the races and between humanity and the environment. On January 18, 2010, on Parliament Hill, in Ottawa, the black community, through the Canadian Martin Luther King Day Coalition, recognized and celebrated his many contributions, by presenting him with a crystal 2010 DreamKEEPER Life Achievement award. An excellent gesture indeed to honour the legacy of the late Dr Rev. Martin Luther King Jr recognizing an elder he inspired!
Photos from the January 18, 2010 ceremony taken by Sarah Onyango
November 2009 Order of Canada citation:
William J. Commanda, O.C.
Maniwaki, Quebec
Officer of the Order of Canada
For his leadership as an elder who has promoted intercultural understanding and has raised awareness of the traditions and legacies of Canada’s Aboriginal people.
Thank you, Grandfather William Commanda for your vision and leadership. It was a privilege to even be in your presence, let alone to hear, in person, the valuable wisdom and lessons you were brought here to share. May you now rest in peace and may we, who are left, honour your legacy by applying what you've taught us. Amen.
More on Grandfather Commanda and his passing:
News Release from Union of Ontario Indians
Anishinabek mourn passing of Grandfather William Commanda
http://www.sootoday.com/content/news/full_story.asp?StoryNumber=53322
Algonquin elder William Commanda was honoured for efforts to bridge cultures
Kitigan Zibi, Que.
The Canadian Press
Published Wednesday, Aug. 03, 2011 10:18PM EDT
Last updated Wednesday, Aug. 03, 2011 10:20PM EDT
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/algonquin-elder-william-commanda-was-honoured-for-efforts-to-bridge-cultures/article2119112/
Keeper of the wampum: William Commanda, Algonquin elder
The subject of a CBC documentary, William Commanda was an aboriginal role model who died Wed. Aug. 3, at 97
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/story/2011/08/03/f-william-commanda-algonquin-elder.html
William Commanda, Algonquin spiritual leader, dead at 97
By Kristy Nease, The Ottawa Citizen August 4, 2011 7:45 AM
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/William+Commanda+Algonquin+spiritual+leader+dead/5199557/story.html#ixzz1U4AxrvUr
The black community's tribute to Grandfather William Commanda, OC...
Algonquin elder Grandfather William Commanda was a First nations Elder Statesman who, with humility and reverence for his fellow man and Mother Earth, devoted his entire life to promoting peaceful coexistence between the races and between humanity and the environment. On January 18, 2010, on Parliament Hill, in Ottawa, the black community, through the Canadian Martin Luther King Day Coalition, recognized and celebrated his many contributions, by presenting him with a crystal 2010 DreamKEEPER Life Achievement award. An excellent gesture indeed to honour the legacy of the late Dr Rev. Martin Luther King Jr recognizing an elder he inspired!
Photos from the January 18, 2010 ceremony taken by Sarah Onyango
A pillar of the community passes away....
FRITH, May Beatrice. On Monday, July 11th 2011 at the age of 86, May Beatrice Frith made her transition peacefully. She will be missed by her brother Kenneth (New York) niece Sylvia Williams (Ottawa) other relatives, nieces, nephews and friends (Jamaica, USA, Canada). May was a Professor of Linguistics with the University of McGill for many years. She also founded the Harambee Education Centre Ottawa Carleton; a division that focuses on providing opportunities for black youth of Canadian Caribbean descendents. All are welcome to pay respects at the Kelly Funeral Home 585 Somerset Street West (Centretown). Visitation Friday, July 22nd 2 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m.; Funeral Saturday, July 23rd 10:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church, 140 Laurier Ave., West. Final resting place Maidstone Manchester Jamaica WI. In Memoriam donations can be made in her honour to the Boys & Girls Club of Ottawa or The Canadian Diabetes Association.
Farewell, Zanele...
CELE, Zanele. Passed away suddenly on Monday February 14, 2011 at the age of 32. Beloved son of Grace Cele (nee Mkwayi) and the late Edward Cele. Loving brother of Themba, Lindiwe, Monde, Sipho and Mfana. Will be dearly remembered by many aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends. FUNERAL: Friends gathered for his home-going at the Ottawa Church of God, 1820 Carling Ave. Saturday, February 19.
Quote provided by friend KB Mokoena:
"Zanele Cele was granted his angel wings on February 14, 2011. Zanele’s life would seem too short to many, but those who were touched by him understood that the quality of existence far exceeds the quantity of time in which one lives. His gently smile,soft voice and his gentle attitude brought so much joy to many and family. The family thanks the kind health professionals who have cared for Zanele for their dedicated care. Thanks to the staff of the Ottawa General Hospital and the Heart Institute."
Quote provided by friend KB Mokoena:
"Zanele Cele was granted his angel wings on February 14, 2011. Zanele’s life would seem too short to many, but those who were touched by him understood that the quality of existence far exceeds the quantity of time in which one lives. His gently smile,soft voice and his gentle attitude brought so much joy to many and family. The family thanks the kind health professionals who have cared for Zanele for their dedicated care. Thanks to the staff of the Ottawa General Hospital and the Heart Institute."
You will always be remembered.....
CHARITY BERNICE OSOME
July 21, 1968 – October 11, 2010
Charity left us on Monday, October 11, 2010, at the age of 42, after a long and courageous struggle which she faced with extraordinary dignity and grace. She is the beloved daughter of Benson and Beatrice Osome; dear sister of Brody Robert Osome and Burton Victor Osome. She is fondly remembered by many aunts, uncles, family members and friends. The family extends a special "thank you" to the staff of the Coswig Hospital, Germany, the Princess Margaret Hospital, Toronto, the Ottawa General Hospital and the Elisabeth Bruyere Health Centre and to all of the friends and relatives who visited as well as to the Metropolitan Bible Church for their support. Friends visited at the Central Chapel of Hulse, Playfair & McGarry, 315 McLeod Street (at O'Connor) Wednesday, October 13, 2010. The funeral service was held at the Metropolitan Bible Church, 2176 Prince of Wales Drive, on Thursday, October 14, 2010 at 11 a.m. Interment followed at Pinecrest Cemetery. In Memoriam donations to the Bruyere Foundation appreciated.
Rest in peace, sister-friend. Your positive and profound impact on many of our lives and the many wonderful memories you leave us are far greater than the loss of your earthly presence...
CALL TO ACTION FROM BRODIE OSOME, CHARITY'S TWIN BROTHER (from his eulogy read at her funeral on October 14, 2010):
"But I want to be specific, because it is a more than a crying shame that with over half a billion dollars raised for cancer research through Terry Fox Runs alone – around the world, we STILL have not been able to save people like my twin sister from the VERY EXACT condition (bone cancer) that Terry Fox inspired the world to fight three decades ago - and my sister has now gone to join him. The problem is not money. I encourage all of you to collaborate with me to bring public awareness for research funding and support to be directed equally to Sarcoma as it is directed to others about which we most commonly hear. It is a crying shame that my parents, who are very qualified in their medical expertise, had to twice leave Canada with Charity to take her to Germany because they have had success in their battles with various cancer conditions including Sarcoma – but here, in Canada, with all that is said about health care, we cannot take some of that half billion and benefit from the best practices of the Germans. My friends, I encourage you to join me in this campaign.
To find out how you, myself and others can honour Charity's memory by joining Brodie's campaign, contact him by email at [email protected]
July 21, 1968 – October 11, 2010
Charity left us on Monday, October 11, 2010, at the age of 42, after a long and courageous struggle which she faced with extraordinary dignity and grace. She is the beloved daughter of Benson and Beatrice Osome; dear sister of Brody Robert Osome and Burton Victor Osome. She is fondly remembered by many aunts, uncles, family members and friends. The family extends a special "thank you" to the staff of the Coswig Hospital, Germany, the Princess Margaret Hospital, Toronto, the Ottawa General Hospital and the Elisabeth Bruyere Health Centre and to all of the friends and relatives who visited as well as to the Metropolitan Bible Church for their support. Friends visited at the Central Chapel of Hulse, Playfair & McGarry, 315 McLeod Street (at O'Connor) Wednesday, October 13, 2010. The funeral service was held at the Metropolitan Bible Church, 2176 Prince of Wales Drive, on Thursday, October 14, 2010 at 11 a.m. Interment followed at Pinecrest Cemetery. In Memoriam donations to the Bruyere Foundation appreciated.
Rest in peace, sister-friend. Your positive and profound impact on many of our lives and the many wonderful memories you leave us are far greater than the loss of your earthly presence...
CALL TO ACTION FROM BRODIE OSOME, CHARITY'S TWIN BROTHER (from his eulogy read at her funeral on October 14, 2010):
"But I want to be specific, because it is a more than a crying shame that with over half a billion dollars raised for cancer research through Terry Fox Runs alone – around the world, we STILL have not been able to save people like my twin sister from the VERY EXACT condition (bone cancer) that Terry Fox inspired the world to fight three decades ago - and my sister has now gone to join him. The problem is not money. I encourage all of you to collaborate with me to bring public awareness for research funding and support to be directed equally to Sarcoma as it is directed to others about which we most commonly hear. It is a crying shame that my parents, who are very qualified in their medical expertise, had to twice leave Canada with Charity to take her to Germany because they have had success in their battles with various cancer conditions including Sarcoma – but here, in Canada, with all that is said about health care, we cannot take some of that half billion and benefit from the best practices of the Germans. My friends, I encourage you to join me in this campaign.
To find out how you, myself and others can honour Charity's memory by joining Brodie's campaign, contact him by email at [email protected]