Fay M. Saintsbury

Fay Margaret Saintsbury was born in England on March 23, 1939 and passed away in Toronto at Toronto Grace Hospital, on November 11, 2016. She lost her battle with cancer, which she fought with determination, dignity and optimism.

Fay was a dearly loved mother, grandmother, sister and friend, predeceased by her parents John and Pat, her brother Christopher and her daughter, Laurie. She leaves behind her son Gerry Jamieson and his wife Kim, and grandchildren Josiah, Courtney, Kristy, Kayla and Noah. Also mourning her passing are her sister Ann Saintsbury, her brother Michael Saintsbury& his wife Shirley, her brother Pat Saintsbury& his wife Kathryn, and her brother Philip Saintsbury, also numerous nephews and nieces. Her dear friends Karin and Meg and God-daughter Sheryl and others who knew her are greatly missing her presence.

Fay was a woman of many talents, who had an inner strength and determination unseen by many, except those close to her. Thesekept her going through the many challenges of life. As a single mom, during an era when being a single mom was a social stigma, she strove to rise above it all and was outspoken about the manner in which single moms were viewed and treated. She made many sacrifices to raise her children in the best way possible, within her means, always putting their needs ahead of her own.Laurie’s birth launched Fay into motherhood at an early age, and was the beginning of a lifetime of joy and laughter, trials and tribulations. Laurie was a very important part of Fay’s life, despite the many challenges and ups and downs. Laurie’s recent death had a profound impact on her, and she missed her greatly.

While Gerry was growing up, Fay made sure that he had some excellent father figures to help form his character. Larry Parker was one who helped shape him into the man that he is today. She encouraged Gerry’s regular involvement from childhood to adulthood, at the local fire-hall, where he had many good role models. She loved her two children with a fierce love and always wanted the best for them. Fayhad the gift of making ‘not enough’, into enough. She could turn ordinary moments into adventures. When her children were little, she would make a skinny stick Christmas tree as magical as an Eaton’s store Christmas display! Although during most of her life she lived amidst high-rises, she loved the beauty and quiet of nature, and every summer a new garden would spring to life on her 5th floor patio, her oasis in the big city. Her cats were her faithful companions, bringing her many hours of joy and amusement. In later years she developed a love of photography, and would spend many hours travelling with her dear friend Karin, finding the perfect scenes or dogs, or cats, or people, to capture on her camera. This gave her great joy & purpose.

In recent years a highlight of her life was her visit back to England, where she had the privilege of joining in the celebration of her Aunt’s 100th birthday.

The past few years held many challenges for Fay, beginning with the diagnosis of a brain tumour, followed by surgery and radiation. This all contributed to a very active, able and independent woman suddenly slowing down to a pace that she was not happy with. During this time she was very appreciative of Dr. Mark Bernstein, her neurosurgeon. Over the years that she was his patient, she had unwavering trust in him. His skill, wisdom, candour and approachability made him her most trusted physician.

Fay will be dearly missed by those who knew her, and those whom her life came in contact with.

Our family wishes to express our heartfelt thanks and appreciation for all who helped to care for her, especially during these past 3 years. Whether you were medical staff, or home care, a friend or family member visiting, or helping in her home, each of you helped Fay navigate some very difficult times and you each made an amazing difference in the life of this one lady. Thank you, from the Jamieson Family.