Gladys May McKnight (née Calver)

February 18, 1949 – April 10, 2025

Gladys was born on February 18, 1949 in Sudbury, Ontario, the youngest of five siblings (Ann, Allan, Eddie, Bobby). She enjoyed backcountry fishing trips with her father and loved winter activities such as cross-country skiing, skating, and ice fishing. Her life was full of cherished family pets and nature.

In her teen years, Gladys moved to Acton, Ontario, where her passion for sports flourished. She was a proud member of Acton’s first female softball team and participated in basketball, archery, wrestling, track and field, excelling in the high jump.

At 22, she married the love of her life, David, becoming an instant mother to four (late Debra, Doug, Jamie, and Janet) and later having two children together, Trevor (Kimberley) and Melissa.

Gladys was deeply devoted to her faith and family. A hardworking woman, she supported her husband’s business and made time for extended family visits and planning memorable vacations. Whether driving coast-to-coast across Canada or enjoying northern camping adventures, she loved bringing people together.

Her proudest role was being a grandmother to Lindsey, Morghan (Brenndan), and Kaleb (Alyssa), great-grandmother to Torin, Piper, and Willow, and a great-great-grandmother. She cherished every moment spent with them on exciting adventures and camping trips.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Please visit the funeral home’s website for future announcements.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wellington Terrace LTC.

Arrangements entrusted to Graham A. Giddy Funeral Home (280 St. David St., Fergus, ON, 519-843-3100). Visit www.grahamgiddyfh.com for Gladys’ memorial.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Graham Giddy Funeral Home.

Christine Anne Stephens

January 13, 1950 – April 11, 2025

It is with both sadness and admiration that we announce the passing of Christine Anne Stephens. She passed away peacefully on April 11th, surrounded by loved ones at Groves Memorial Hospital in Fergus.

Predeceased by her partner in life, love and business Patrick Stephens. Christine was born and raised in Seattle, Washington, the daughter of a bio-engineering professor and a decorated ski professional. She grew up between her older brother Bobby and younger sister Becky, which shaped her warm diplomacy and love for puzzles, nature, and learning.

Christine was a true academic, earning an Honours B.A. from Stanford and a Master’s from the University of Oregon. Her career in insurance began in Kincardine, Ontario, eventually leading her to co-found a successful insurance brokerage in Guelph with offices across Ontario.

As a founding member of L.A.C.E. (Lady Advisor Council of Education), she was a generous mentor, friend, and community member, known for her deep relationships and lasting contributions.

Loving mother of Lesley (Mark Woods) and Christopher (Valerie Molina). Proud grandmother to Shannon, Jack, Audrey, and Declan. Sister to Bobby (Pat Hale) and Becky (Pat Lyle). Sister-in-law to Susan (Barny Henderson). Aunt and great-aunt to many nieces and nephews. Christine leaves behind a legacy of warmth, wisdom, and connection. We were all better for having known her and will miss her deeply.

A celebration of life will take place from 1 PM – 4 PM on April 26th, 2025, at Graham Giddy Funeral Home, 280 St. David St. S., Fergus, Ontario.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Graham Giddy Funeral Home.

Elizabeth Bailes

July 29, 1933 - March 5, 2025

Elizabeth Bailes (Betty to friends, Bess to family), 91, of Arthur, Ontario, passed away peacefully at Groves Memorial Community Hospital on March 5, 2025, with her daughter Yvonne by her side.

Elizabeth is survived by her beloved daughter Yvonne Bailes-Mulder (Ben); loved grandchildren Lena Mulder-Janssen (Jesse), Ethan Bailes, and Evan Bailes; cherished great-grandchildren Jemma and Jordan Janssen; sister Mavis Lewis; brother Harold Bateman (Shiela); daughter-in-law Michelle; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Elizabeth is predeceased by her lifelong husband Harry, son Ian Bailes, parents Edith Winnifred Bateman and Henry Webster Bateman, sister Maureen Bailes, brothers Charles Bateman (Jean) and Martin Bateman (Dorothy), and brothers-in-law Joe Bailes and David Lewis.

Elizabeth was born in Stockton-On-Tees, England, to parents Henry and Edith Bateman. She proudly worked alongside her father and brother Charles in their butcher’s shop in England for many years. She married her sweetheart and only love in 1953, had their two children, and emigrated to Canada in 1971. Once in Canada, Elizabeth worked at Little Folks Furniture Factory, where she made many friends.

Elizabeth and Harry purchased a farm and moved to Arthur in 1988, where she proudly lived out her days alongside her daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter after Harry’s passing. She loved the outdoors, especially her gardens, watching hummingbirds, walking, and riding horses while she was able. She had a passion for baking, cooking, making English pork pies, and hosting the most amazing holiday dinners. She also had a deep love for animals and her carousel horse collection.

Elizabeth did not wish for a big send-off, and cremation has taken place. In memory of Elizabeth, donations may be made to the Arthritis Society, as she struggled with rheumatoid arthritis for many years.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and PSWs at Groves Memorial Community Hospital for their kindness and compassion during this difficult time, as well as to Graham Giddy Funeral Home for their support and guidance.

The amount that you will be missed has no limits. The memories you left us with will be cherished, the lessons in life that you taught us will never be forgotten, and the love you have shown will never be replaced. Words can’t explain how much we will miss you. Heaven has gained a wonderful angel, leaving our hearts hollow yet filled with so much love for you. May you rest in peace.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Graham Giddy Funeral Home.