Morley, Jane Elizabeth died unexpectedly on Nov 24th, 2025, at age 71 of familial heart disease. Jane leaves behind her beloved children Paul and Alex. She is deeply missed by her sisters-in-law Helen, Alexandra, and Wendy, her brother-in-law Brian, her nephews, and her surviving relatives on her mother’s side (Ricker). Jane was predeceased by her cherished husband Walter Myrka (2018), as well as her aunt Bernie Morley (2010), brother John Morley (2010), father Lloyd Morley (2000), mother Doris Morley (2012), aunt Marion Ricker (1986), brother-in-law Ron Wasilishin (2020), and uncle John Ricker (2022).
Jane graduated from Queen’s Law in 1980. Her years at Queens were pivotal as she developed a passion for justice, lifelong friendships, and most importantly met Walter. Theirs was a true and unfaltering partnership. Following graduation, both Jane’s and Walter’s callings were in public service.
Jane’s career was devoted to Legal Aid Ontario (LAO). Her particular focus was fair representation for individuals in criminal and refugee cases, both of whom seek justice in the face of the overwhelming resources of the state. For many years, Jane was the Director of LAO LAW, which provides valued and respected legal support and resources for LAO staff lawyers, duty counsel, and lawyers acting for legally aided clients across Ontario. After retiring in 2019, Jane continued to dedicate time to justice and dignity for vulnerable populations through her volunteer work for a variety of charities, including those focused on food insecurity, antisemitism, racism, and victims of torture.
Jane led a principled life. Her career was deeply driven by her values and unusually strong sense of justice. To her friends and family, she gave unconditional loyalty and empathy, capped off with a uniquely dry sense of humour. Despite her severe allergy to pets, she could not resist sharing her warmth with any dog or cat that she met.
It was family, however, that was most important to Jane, and she valued Walter and her boys above all. With them, she lived life to the fullest and particularly shared a love of the outdoors and outdoor sports. The family shared many adventures, especially at their second home in Muskoka. While she purported to be alarmed by the daredevil escapades of Walter, Paul, and Alex, the twinkle in her eye and smile in her voice gave away the joy these family moments brought her. Following Walter’s passing and her retirement, Jane continued to embrace and delight in outdoor adventures with Alex ranging from sea cave kayaking in Channel Islands National Park (California), to rainforest hiking in Corcovado National Park (Costa Rica), and tropical snorkelling In Aruba.
Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held at Pine Hills Funeral Center Toronto on June 6, 2026, at 12PM. If desired, donations may be made to the Geneva Center for Autism, Pegasus Toronto, The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation, or a charity of your choice. Please RSVP at: https://JEMorley.rsvpify.com
Funeral Details
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Celebration of Life
Pine Hills Cemetery & Funeral Centre
625 Birchmount Road, Toronto, ON, CANADA, M1K 1R1
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