Peacefully passed at the Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital on Monday, September 14th, 2026 at the age of 73 years. Beloved wife of Tom for 44 years. Loving mother of Meghan, Katie (Brad) and David (Shannon). Proud nana of Bennett and Avey. Dear sister of Deborah (the late Dean) and Dave (Vicki) and sister-in-law of James and Brian. Cherished aunt of Grant (Basia), Scott (Teena), Kevin (Ashley), Sarah (Matt) and Joshy. Will be sadly missed by many extended family members and dear friends.
Lesley was a woman of many gifts and many chapters, each one leaving a lasting mark on the people and world around her. A retired Registered Nurse and educator, she dedicated much of her life to caring for others and sharing her knowledge, compassion, and experience. She had a deep love of genealogy, taking great pride in discovering and preserving the stories, names, and connections that made up her family’s history. She was also an accomplished quilter and gardener, finding joy and creativity in the simple, beautiful things she could make with her hands. Through all of these passions, she carried a quiet curiosity, a love of learning, and an appreciation for the generations that came before her and those who would follow.
Above all, she was the matriarch of her family—a steady presence, a keeper of traditions, and a person whose influence reached far beyond the roles she held. Her life was woven into the lives of her family and loved ones in countless ways, through stories shared, lessons taught, quilts lovingly made, gardens carefully tended, and memories created over many years. She leaves behind more than a collection of accomplishments; she leaves a legacy of love, knowledge, family, and the countless lives she touched along the way. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the stories she preserved, the wisdom she shared, and the love she gave will continue through the generations.
Visitation will be held at the Steckley-Gooderham Funeral Home, 30 Worsley St., Barrie, on Thursday, September 17th, 2026 from 7-9 pm and again on Friday, September 18th, 2026 from 10 am until the time of Service in the Chapel at 11 am. Guests are invited to remain for a reception following the Service inside the lower lounge. Interment will take place at the Barrie Union Cemetery, 338 Sunnidale Rd., Barrie, following the reception at approximately 2 pm.
Donations in Lesley’s memory may be made to Hospice Simcoe and are greatly appreciated by the family. The family would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the staff at the Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital for all of the care and compassion shown to Lesley.
Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.steckleygooderham.com