It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Vassiliki (Vassoula) Mexis, on July 2, 2026, in her 88th year, surrounded by her loving family.

Vassoula was born in Volos, Greece, just before World War II. She endured the hardships of war as a young child, with her memories of that era vivid. Nonetheless, with the encouragement of her parents, and a natural love and aptitude for learning, she completed her studies in Greece and came to Canada in 1963, where she married the love of her life, Michael. A lifelong curiosity and love of learning led her to continue her studies in Canada, where she completed a program in Greek studies at the University of Toronto, and also obtained her Certificate of English Proficiency, passing the Michigan English Test with flying colours.

Vassoula had a deep pride in her Greek culture and heritage. Vassoula’s 45-year career as a teacher allowed her to impart her knowledge of the Greek language and culture to countless children through the International Language Program at the TDSB, the Toronto Greek Community programs, and at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, where she was a member for over 60 years. Vassoula passed this love of learning and exceedingly high standards and expectations on to her students and her children, encouraging them to excel in their education and their careers.

Vassoula had a strength of character and tenacity that helped her to establish a life in Canada. A proud Canadian, Vassoula raised her family first in the Beaches and then in East York. Vassoula approached each aspect of her life with skill and natural aptitude that made everything look effortless. A gifted cook, baker, artist, and singer, Vassoula took great pride in her home and her garden, where the flowers in the front yard of her East York home caused many passersby to stop and admire her handiwork. Vassoula won prizes for her needlework at the Canadian National Exhibition. A naturally gifted singer, Vassoula organized and led choirs and concerts for various significant events such as Christmas, Mother’s Day, Greek Independence Day at the Greek Community of Toronto, various Greek Schools, and Sunday Schools.

Vassoula’s strength helped her to endure the tragic loss of her husband Michael in 1997. However, surrounded by family and friends, Vassoula continued to thrive, and travelled to many countries with her family including Russia, Israel, Jordan, Portugal, France, Spain, and Italy, alongside her beloved Greece.

Vassoula lived her life with independence and a fierce determination that she passed on to her children. She is survived by Mary (Glenn), Sabina (Craig) and Theofilos Michael (Labrine), and her grandchildren Athena, George, John, Elisabeth, Angelina, and Michael. She is also survived by her brother Kiriakos (Kerasia) and her sister Katerina, along with many extended family members and friends whose lives were enriched by knowing her.

In this time of intense grief, we take comfort in the knowledge that she has been reunited with her beloved Michael, as well as her parents, Savvas and Athena, and her many other family members and friends. Her love, generosity of spirit, and tenacity will live on in her children, grandchildren, and all those who had the privilege to know her. We are grateful for and appreciative of the support of family and friends, including the care of the excellent staff at St. Michael’s Hospital, Michael Garron Hospital, Bridgepoint Hospital, and Sts. Peter and Paul Residence.

Forever loved, forever remembered, and forever in our hearts.
May her memory be eternal. (Αἰωνία η μνήμη.)

In lieu of flowers, donations to St. George’s Greek Orthodox Church, Toronto, would be appreciated. http://www.stgeorgestoronto.org/