In memory of

Cynthia June Elizabeth Cole

June 20, 1933 - January 11, 2024

With the heaviest of hearts, we announce the passing of Cynthia June Elizabeth Cole.

Born in Durban, South Africa, Cynthia began her adult life with her husband Dr. Albert Wagner and son Allister (1957-2015) in Johannesburg. After losing Albert in a tragic accident, she determined to start afresh, and moved to Canada in 1963 with Allister. As a non-white widow alone in a foreign land, and with little more than the shirt on her back, Cynthia overcame tremendous odds to build her new life. She began working at Toronto General Hospital as a nurse, where she later met her future husband, Dr. David Cole. Their inter-racial love story and nearly decade-long struggle to have a child are stories well known to many of you.

Cynthia will be remembered for her sparkle, grace, indomitable strength and generosity. She lived a life of principle and dignity. She was a passionately devoted mother, a beloved Ouma, a loyal friend, and a dear Aunty to her family. She is survived by husband David Cole, daughter Naida Cole, son-in-law Sean Moser, and grandchildren Davin and Reid Moser.

Visitation will be at Mount Pleasant Funeral Centre (375 Mount Pleasant Road, Toronto, ON) on January 27, 2024 from 1–2 pm. Service to follow at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, please be kind to a stranger in memory of Cynthia.

Guestbook

(5 of 12)

Naida Cole

Entered January 20, 2024

As I think about my mom, what she meant to me and to those who loved her, I'm reminded of this quote by Nelson Mandela.

"What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead."

Wendy, George and Jessica Tong (Good friends)

Entered January 20, 2024 from Pickering

Our condolences to David and Naida for your loss. Cynthia has been a very dear friend since Jessica was 8 years old with Marina Geringas. Her warm friendship and support was a very rare quality. I am sorry that I never got to say goodbye. Our heartfelt condolences and may Cynthia rest in peace, my dear friend. 🙏 Wendy.

Joan Evans (Long time friend)

Entered January 20, 2024 from Ottawa

My sincere condolences to David, Naida and family. I have always felt very fortunate and grateful to have Cynthia as a dear loyal friend for so many years. She will hold a special place in my heart forever. Wishing you peace and comfort at this difficult time.
With love, Auntie Joan.

Patricia and Andrew Padmos (Friends)

Entered January 20, 2024 from Ottawa Ontario

To Cynthia’s family,
We are so sorry for the loss of your wonderful wife, mother and grandmother…. and our friend. Cynthia was a vibrant, kind, constantly cheerful person whom we admired and loved.

Michelle (Neice)

Entered January 21, 2024 from Florida

As children growing up in South Africa it was always such a treat when aunt Cynthia visited. Her style was second to none. Her laughter was infectious and she always came bearing gifts.
She loved her family - 414 Russel Hill was the landing and launching pad for many of her neices and nephews who later followed to Canada.
Regardless of what she was going through or feeling on the inside, aunty always had a smile on her face. She greeted the world with her best make up, her best outfit and with grace and class.
She had an inner strength that carried her through some of her toughest bouts of illness and saddest days of loss...but she endured.
I will forever cherish my days with my beloved aunt Cynthia.
xoxox - Mitchie