It is with great sadness we announce the death of Gillian Blessing (nee Ashby) at the age of 81 on March 16, 2019, at her home in Etobicoke. Gill is predeceased by her husband, Jeff Blessing; sister, Judith Bennett; and her parents, Stanley and Grace Ashby. Survived by brother, Christopher Ashby.
Gill -- affectionately known as Mumsy to her children and Zee to her grandchildren -- was a dedicated teacher, a great friend, and a devoted mother and grandmother. Born in 1937, she lived her childhood in Kent, England, remembering surviving nights in air raid shelters during the Blitz. Gill emigrated to Canada in 1959, where she continued her career as a teacher. She and Jeff were married in Toronto in 1970 and had 3 children who survive her: Sian Claire (Ben); Siobhan (Adrian); and Patrick (Kyra).
Gill was selfless, kind, fiercely independent, and determined -- these traits never more exemplified than during her recent illness. After the sudden death of her husband, Jeff, in 1986, she channelled her trademark strength and tenacity to raise 3 children alone. She was an inspiration to all who had the great fortune to know her.
Gill was interested and interesting, well travelled and very well read. After guiding and mentoring students for nearly 30 years at Central Commerce Collegiate in Toronto, Gill's curiosity and passion for learning continued into retirement, travelling widely to many places including India, Vietnam, China and Europe. Throughout her life, she maintained a robust, fun, close-knit group of friends who proved great support throughout her life.
Gill loved Toronto and considered Canada home, but never forgot her English roots, enjoying a flowering summer garden, the highs and lows of Wimbledon tennis, a riveting BBC drama, and a well-made cup of tea. Mumsy loved the theatre, cinema, and a good book --always able to provide a considered recommendation to friends and family. Gill had an infectious love of Christmas; her meticulous planning and preparation ensured a memorable time was had by all.
Gill, "Zee" to her grandchildren -- Fionnlagh, Conor, Alex, Zoe, Bronwyn, Feidhlim, Benjy and Nicky -- was a grandmother par excellence. She championed each grandchild from the day they were born. Gill shared many of her passions with her grandchildren, including books, board and card games, and tea drinking. She took quiet pride in their growth, their endeavours and successes. She attended school concerts, hockey games, gymnastics and dance recitals along with their countless other activities where she could provide encouragement and cheer them on. But more than anything, Zee loved sitting and chatting with them. She learned their interests, was insightful in pushing their academics -- and was a source of unconditional love for each of them. All eight of her grandchildren will know they were very loved by her, and that they in turn provided deep and enduring enjoyment to her right to the end of her life.
Mumsy was an indomitable source of strength, wisdom, kindness and friendship in all our lives. She will be ever so sadly missed.

As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to The Dorothy Ley Hospice or The Princess Margaret Hospital.