1983-2026 / Toronto, ON
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Ashley Lauren Palandra on May 24, 2026, at the age of 43. A brilliant mind and a compassionate soul, Ashley dedicated her life to understanding and healing the human spirit.
Born and raised in Toronto, Ashley pursued her passion for psychology with tenacity, earning her BA from the University of Toronto, her MA from NYU and her PhD from the University of British Columbia. As a psychologist, she was a fierce advocate for social justice and women’s mental health, contributing groundbreaking research on eating disorders and the challenges faced by women in their relationships with food. Her colleagues and students remember her not only for her intellectual rigour but for her warmth, her commitment to advocacy, and her unwavering belief in the power of empathy.
Outside of her professional life, Ashley was known for her love of her Italian-Canadian heritage and her deep connection to her family and friends. Ashley was a loving daughter, sister, auntie and friend. She will be deeply missed by all who loved her.
Visitation will be held at Jerrett Funeral Homes, 660 Kennedy Road, Toronto, ON, M1K2B5, CA, on May 28, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm, followed by a Funeral Service at Jerrett Funeral Homes from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm.
Burial will take place at Pine Hills Cemetery and Funeral Centre, 625 Birchmount Rd, Toronto, ON, M1K 1R1, CA, on May 28, 2026, from 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm.
