Gladys Ellis (“Nana”), after celebrating her 100th birthday in May, passed away peacefully at home on Logan Avenue on Wednesday, June 18th.

Gladys was the beloved wife of the late Douglas, cherished mother of the late Lynda (Paul), devoted grandmother to Lisa (Gary), proud great-grandmother to Logan, and loving sister to John, Pearl, and Bill. She was also a treasured aunt and a loyal friend to many.

Born in 1925 to John and Lillian, Gladys was raised in Toronto’s Leaside neighborhood. She witnessed a century of incredible change—from the Great Depression to the digital age. In 1946, she married her sweetheart Doug and moved to Riverdale, where she built a home and a life filled with love and community for nearly 80 years. Her warmth and generosity touched many—neighbors, local shopkeepers, and lifelong friends alike.

Gladys was a spirited woman with a sharp wit and a big heart. She made lasting friendships through work and life, often hosting lively card games, festive holiday dinners, and cocktail hours filled with laughter. Though she humbly called herself a “common cook,” her meals were anything but. Whether serving a Saturday lunch to her great-grandson or preparing Thanksgiving for a dozen guests, she made sure no one ever left hungry—or without a smile.

She worked proudly as a telephone operator for Bell Canada, retiring at 55. In her retirement, she devoted herself fully to her family and found great joy in gardening. With her green thumb, she transformed her backyard into a place of beauty and calm each summer. Her home and her garden were extensions of her love—nurtured with care and shared generously.

In her later years, Nana formed an especially close bond with her granddaughter Lisa and great-grandson Logan. Their love for her was deep, and her presence in their lives will be profoundly missed. They intend to continue tending her garden as a living tribute to her enduring spirit.

A celebration of Gladys’s life will be held on Saturday, July 5th.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Bridgepoint Health, in support of stroke rehabilitation and palliative care.

Online Donations:
Hennick Bridgepoint Foundation – Palliative Fund

By Mail:
Sinai Health Foundation
1001-522 University Avenue
Toronto, ON M5G 1W7

(Please make cheques payable to Hennick Bridgepoint Foundation, noting “Palliative Fund – In memory of Gladys Ellis” in the description.)