Beryl Amah Thelma Harris, known lovingly and widely as Amah Harris, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, 9 July 2025, in Toronto with her sister Francine by her side.

She was predeceased by her parents Hugh and Beryl Harris, and her brothers Errol and Wentworth Harris. She leaves behind her siblings, Otto Harris, Joffrey Harris, Cary Harris, Francine Harris, Ray Harris and their families as well as the families of her deceased brothers and her extended family who carry forward her legacy of compassion, creativity, and cultural pride.

Born in the Commonwealth of Dominica, Amah became a powerful force for cultural expression, social justice, and education in Dominica, Canada and beyond.

An award-winning producer, artistic director, playwright, actress, facilitator, and educator, Amah dedicated her life to promoting the positive imaging of Caribbean and African peoples. She co-directed Black Theatre Canada in the 1970s and later founded Theatre In The Rough in 1985. Her groundbreaking “Kwakoo Anansi Series” reimagined African folklore to teach wisdom, justice, and social change.

Recognized in 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women (2018) and by institutions such as the John Holland Awards, Amah’s innovative work in blending theatre with education reached hundreds of thousands across Canada, the U.S., the Caribbean, and South Africa. She held a B.A., B.Ed., and M.Ed., and was best known as an anti-racist advocate and cultural champion.

Over the past decade, Amah worked closely with Our Greenway Conservancy, passionately supporting its mission to create safer, greener, and more connected communities. She played a vital role in showcasing and promoting the organization’s efforts, especially through her work with youth and seniors, where she brought stories to life and bridged generations with creativity and care.

In honour of Amah’s commitment, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Our Greenway Conservancy in lieu of flowers. Contributions will help continue the work Amah championed, building spaces of connection, wellness, and belonging for all.

Amah Harris’s life was a tapestry of art, learning, and activism, woven with intention, courage and care. Her voice and vision touched countless lives, and her work will continue to inspire generations toward the harmonious coexistence of peoples and the creation of safer, greener, and more connected communities, places where all can thrive.

The family of the late Beryl Amah Thelma Harris wishes to thank all those who have expressed their heartfelt love and sympathy during this time of bereavement. They also wish to thank the staff at the Toronto Western Hospital for making the last few days of her life comfortable.

The Memorial Mass of Thanksgiving for the Life of our beloved Beryl Amah Thelma Harris will be held on 27 September 2025, at 11:00 am at Our Lady of Good Counsel Caribbean Canadian Catholic Church; 867 College Street, Toronto. ON. A reception will take place downstairs in the Church Hall following the mass.

To make a charitable donation (with tax receipt) to Our Greenway, click in the bar below "🎁 Make a Donation", OR click "Donations > Make a Donation" at top right of this page. Our Greenway Donations are collected via York University. Contributions support Our Greenway's work. York University is a registered charity based in Toronto, ON. Canada [Charitable No. 11930 6736 RR0001]