Her love was our foundation, her laughter our light, her legacy our guide.

Today, we celebrate the life and legacy of our beloved matriarch, Gloria Coralie — a woman whose gentle spirit, unwavering love, and profound wisdom left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Gloria passed away peacefully at the age of 87, surrounded by the love of her family — a testament to a life well lived and deeply loved.

Born in Antigua to her proud parents, Unalda Antonio and Marie Lake Antonio, Gloria — affectionately known as Coralie — spent the first half of her life in the warm embrace of her island home. There, she began weaving the rich tapestry of her life: one built on family, faith, laughter, and quiet service to others.

In Antigua, she met and married the love of her life, Robert ("Robbie"), with whom she shared a bond that endured life's many seasons. Together, they raised three wonderful children: Claude, Charmaine, and Anthony.

Later, Gloria and Robbie made the courageous decision to migrate to Canada, joining Claude, who was already living there with his family, and bringing with them Charmaine and Anthony. In her new home, she used her formal first name, "Gloria," though to many who knew her from Antigua, she remained Coralie at heart.

Her devotion to family never wavered, nor did her deep faith—first nurtured at Ebenezer Methodist Church in Antigua and then steadfastly continued at Peace Lutheran Church, Pickering, and St. Martin's Anglican Church in Canada, where she was a cherished and faithful member.

Gloria was the true heart of her family — a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and mother-in-law who loved without reservation. Her three children loved her immensely and respected her deeply. Even as adults, they leaned on her wisdom, counted on her strength, and basked in the certainty of her love.

Her daughter Charmaine, who lived closest to her, had the tremendous and precious gift of caring for Gloria, especially in the final season of her life — a role she fulfilled with devotion, tenderness, and grace. Her husband, Wesley, stood faithfully by her side, offering strength, support, and unwavering love through every moment.

Gloria shared a special bond with her children's spouses — embracing Maureen, Wesley, and Dorothea with open arms and a welcoming heart. She treated them not as in-laws but as her own, nurturing a relationship built on mutual love, respect, and laughter. Their kindness, care, and affection for her were a reflection of the deep roots she cultivated within the family.

Whether it was a thoughtful call on a birthday, a handwritten card with a gift tucked inside, or her comforting voice on the other end of the line, Gloria made sure no milestone passed unnoticed. Her eight grandchildren — Jessica, Leslie-Ann, Ethan, Tekeda, Sean, Alix, Aliya, and Jodee — and her five great-grandchildren — Sean, Adam, Benjamin, Raeya, and Marley — could always count on her love, her encouragement, and her presence in their lives.

Her kitchen was an extension of her heart. Gloria’s mastery of Antiguan cuisine was legendary — she could whip up the most delectable meals in minutes, leaving everyone asking for more. Her bakes were golden perfection, her soups rich and nourishing, her pancakes light and fluffy, and her liver dishes unmatched. Meals at her table were love made tangible.

Her sense of humor was a quiet but constant delight — her sharp one-liners often left the room in laughter. Even in her final months, when frailty began to show, Gloria met each challenge with remarkable grace, her spirit shining through.

Her husband Robbie passed away in 1997, and though she lived nearly 28 years without him, Gloria carried forward with dignity, resilience, and a heart full of faith and gratitude.

In her final days, Gloria was surrounded by love. Her children gathered around her — joined by their spouses, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, both in person and over video calls. Gloria was able to feel the full breadth of her family’s gratitude, devotion, and deep love.

She lived a life that had depth and impact — a life that made those around her better, stronger, and more loving. Gloria Coralie, you have given your very best. You have shaped us, guided us, loved us, and taught us by your beautiful example.

You leave behind a family richer because of you.

Rest well, beloved Gloria. Fly with the angels. You have earned your peace.