In memory of

Filomena De Melo

August 11, 1963 -  January 29, 2020

Filomena De Melo, a beloved teacher, mother and wife, died at 6:22am on January 29th, 2020 at the Hill House Hospice after a hard-fought battle with pancreatic cancer. She was 56 years old. Filomena is survived by her beloved husband, Jose Matias, her children Julia and Vitoria, her sisters Maria de Luz, Fatima, Ana and their spouses, her brother-in-law Luciano Matias, and her nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her sister, Rita De Melo; her parents Agostinho De Melo and Belmira Pimentel, and her parents-in-law, Etelvina Almedia Matias and Jose de Couto Matias. Filomena was born in 1963 in Achada Nordeste, Sao Miguel, Azores. She immigrated to Canada in 1975 at the age of 10. She worked diligently to complete her degree in French Language at York University. While there, she was involved in the York University Portuguese Association where she worked diligently to encourage and support children in her community in their pursuit for higher education. She married her first and true love, Jose Matias in June 1987. She completed Teacher’s College in 1992, whereafter she became a passionate and devoted teacher at Yorkview Public School in their French Immersion program. On July 25th, 1992, and May 21st, 1998, she gave birth to her two beautiful daughters, who were the pride and joy of her life. Filomena adored her work, family and friends. She loved to travel and spend time with those she cared for. She was compassionate to those around her. In her life she volunteered at St Christopher House, as a tutor, and as a Big Sister for the Catholic Children’s Aid. She is remembered by all for her honesty, loyalty, and considerate nature. She will be deeply missed by her friends, family, and those who knew her. Visitation will be held at Mount Pleasant Funeral Centre (375 Mt. Pleasant Road) on Friday January 31st, 2020 from 1-3 pm and 7-9 pm. The funeral will be at St. Sebastian Church (20 Pauline Ave.) this Saturday Feb 1st, 2020 at 10am followed by burial at the Mount Pleasant Cemetery. In memory of Filomena, donations to the Hill House Hospice http://hillhousehospice.com/ would be appreciated. For more information please visit www.etouch.ca

Guestbook 

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Hershl Berman (Father of 2 students)

Entered January 30, 2020 from Toronto

Mme De Melo taught both of my children in grade 1. She was one of the most wonderful teachers I have ever met.

Her compassion and skill in keeping my son, who was struggling with French, engaged in her class, made the year magical for him.

I will never forget the wonderful gift she gave my children and will be forever thankful.

My deepest condolences to her family.

Margaret & Robert Binnd (Friend)

Entered January 31, 2020 from Alliston

It seems impossible that this vibrant, loving, kind, generous, supportive, talented, human is no longer with us. Our friendship was long-standing and the very best kind of all... simple, unpretentous, loyal, and supportive. Filomena, you will be dearly missed (especially your great laugh, your kind heart, and your joi de vivre). Our hearts are completely broken, and we are especially hurting for your family - your loving husband, José, and your incredible daughters, Julia and Vitoria. May they find comfort in the wonderful memories you shared together. We will treasure our friendship and your memory forever! Rest in peace, dear friend. 💔❤️

Evy Gambin (fellow teacher)

Entered January 31, 2020 from Toronto

I am so sorry for your loss. Filomena was such a lovely person. She had a huge smile that was infectious. I know her students were blessed to have such a dedicated and caring teacher.

Christine Wilton (Teaching friend)

Entered January 31, 2020 from Bolton

I was so sad to hear about Filomena and her passing. I have such fond memories of her when I worked with her at Yorkview. She taught Grade One on the French side and I taught Grade One on the English side. She was so kind, friendly and a joy to work with. I will be praying for all of you during this very difficult time.

Todd Edwards (Parent)

Entered February 1, 2020 from North York

My deepest sympathies go out to her family and friends. I will always remember her for how she taught my three boys about the core values of honesty and integrity. She truly engaged herself in the classroom and one will never forget her laughter and smile. She will truly be missed.

Photos 

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