Kathleen Mary Mills

The family of Kathleen Mills is saddened to announce her sudden passing on the morning of Sept 10th, 2023, comfortably and with her children at her side.

Kathleen was born in Sherbrooke, Quebec on February 12th, 1940, to Cecile (1990) and Gerald Mills (1989). Always social and fun-loving, Kathleen had a gift for adventure that led her to a broad set of experiences from teacher, ski-patroller, sports car enthusiast (MGB!), international traveler and Canadian Forces Reservist (Lieutenant (N/S), Sherbrooke Hussars). Alongside this lively spirit was a keen mind for academic and professional excellence, which led her to a long and distinguished career as a Registered Nurse. In addition, Kathleen completed her Bachelor of Arts at York University in 1977 with her two young children in tow.

During her career Kathleen worked at Toronto General Hospital, Queensway Hospital, Branson Hospital, North York General and ended her career at York Central Hospital in ICU/CCU. Kathleen was a frontline SARS nurse at North York General and took her responsibilities and harsh quarantine in stride. She was very proud of her accomplishments as an ICU/CCU nurse and regularly schooled the doctors and nurses during hospital visits and appointments.

Kathleen embraced retirement in Thornhill with a strong circle of friends and family, continued to travel and watch her grandchildren grow. A near fatal stroke in 2008 could not temper her enthusiasm for adventure, dancing and great friendship, and her tenacity and courage allowed her a remarkable recovery. In 2018, she moved to the Glynnwood Retirement home in Thornhill followed by a move to the Leaside care home in 2021. Her ready smile, gregarious storytelling and tremendous strength will be remembered by family, friends and everyone who worked with and cared for Kathleen.

Kathleen is survived by her children John (Rona) and Kathryn (Cullen), her beloved grandchildren Bryn, Sean, Elise and Justine, her sisters Cecily and Patricia and brothers Michael (Nicole) and Wallace (Diane). Predeceased by her parents and sister Maureen (Guy). She was always very close to her family and the family of her former husband Jim Williams, the in-laws and “outlaws” alike.

Visitation services were held at the Kane-Jerrett Funeral Home in Thornhill on Thursday September 21st. The funeral mass was held at St Luke’s Catholic Church on Friday September 22nd at 11am, with family and friends in attendance.

Interment services will be held at 10am on September 28th 2023, at Saint-Roch Cemetery in Rock Forest (Chemin Saint-Roch S, Sherbrooke, Quebec). Reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, a steady source of education and inspiration for Kathleen.