Davida passed away on Sunday, May 21, 2023, at the age of 83. Loving wife of the late John Hunter. Cherished Mom of Craig (Allison). Beloved daughter of the late David Valentine (Cecily) and Peggy Burgos (Rick), and pre-deceased by her sisters Wanda and Peggy. She will be sadly missed by her grandchildren Ryan, Jenna and Sarah, their partners, and her great-grandson Riley, and by her many friends and extended family.

Davida was born in Quebec and raised in Toronto living primarily in North Toronto attending Lawrence Park Collegiate and Branksome Hall. Her Mom and Dad had a travel agency in Leaside, where Davida worked and was privileged to visit many places quite early in her life.

Davida married John in 1961 and they continued to live in midtown Toronto before moving to the then suburbs of North York in the late 1960s, where they raised their son, Craig. Following John’s retirement, Davida and John moved to Bracebridge. In 2018, they followed friends to live in the more climate-friendly Niagara region.

John and Davida loved to travel. They regularly visited family and friends in California, Scotland, Grand Cayman and recently spent winters in Florida. They also travelled with friends to many parts of the world, from Turkey to Alaska to the Amazon. Such times together brought impressive life experiences and lasting memories. Davida and John were married for 61 years prior to John’s passing in October 2022.

Davida liked to live in the present, and did not dwell on the past. She had a strong spirit, and despite dealing with illness over many years, she never complained, and would often say: “I’m doing just fine, don’t worry.” Her grandchildren remember her as being resilient. She was candid. Never shy to say what was on her mind, which could be a good or a bad thing, but more often than not, brings memories that her family finds humour in. They remember her as being kind and loving. It was evident how much she loved her family and friends.

More recently, Davida appreciated her full life and the compassionate care she received from the staff at the Royal Henley where she resided for the past year. She often said: “I am doing beautifully. Just love this place, they treat me like a Queen.”

Davida was complex, remarkable, strong, intelligent, and always had a smile on her face, even in tough times. It is that big, bright smile, and happy disposition that we will all remember.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Dr. Jayawardene and to the many staff members and nurses who took such excellent care of Davida over the past months.

Davida's wish was for a private cremation. Arrangements have been made at Pine Hills Cemetery in Toronto. No donations or flowers are required. The family would like you to know that your supportive, kind words and memories have been, and will continue to be, very much appreciated.