It is with deep sadness that our family announces the passing of our mother, Grace Trotter (nee Huffman). Mom passed away peacefully, at the age of 98, on December 3, 2024. Predeceased by her beloved husband, the Honourable James Trotter. Also predeceased by her parents, Phyllis and John Huffman, her sister, Annette Duthie and brother, Dick Huffman. Grace will be sadly missed but fondly remembered by her children; Elizabeth, Andy (Sue), Virginia (Grant), and her grandchildren Natalie (Hugo), Julia (Kevin), James, Jasper and her great-granddaughter, Ella Grace as well as her nephews John (Jen), Hugh and Jim Duthie.
Mom was born in Toronto on July 7, 1926. She was known for her graciousness, elegance, and her natural ability to make others feel at ease. She had a gift for connecting with people, forming friendships that lasted a lifetime. Those close to her admired her warmth and poise, and she found deep joy in making others feel comfortable and welcome.
Summers at Presqu’ile Point were truly Mom’s ‘heaven on earth,’ and were a special part of her life - a place she treasured from her childhood and throughout her adult years. She was an exceptional hostess, finding joy in cooking and sharing meals with family and friends. Her calendar was always full, reflecting her active life and love of social gatherings. Whether gardening, golfing, playing cards, swimming, or exploring the world, Mom approached life with an open and enthusiast spirit. She also took great pleasure in driving—yes, driving! (Though we’re not sure that would hold up on today’s Toronto roads!). Mom truly enjoyed it and knew the city’s backroads like the back of her hand. Remarkably, in her early 80s, she drove across the continent to Arizona with her sister Annette, brother-in-law Harold, and even pet dog, Pokey. In her later years, Mom often offered rides to friends who could no longer drive by taking them to appointments and social events.
Always eager for adventure, Mom’s spirited personality led her to work as a secretary at a military base in Churchill, Manitoba when she was in her early 30’s. Years later, when she was in her 80’s, to ride an ATV across the sand dunes of Kenya, with her dear friend Liz.
Our family takes great comfort in knowing that Mom has now been reunited with our Dad and other dear family members and friends, who were a vital part of her life. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to those who have shared their condolences, as well as to the compassionate staff at Lakeside Long Term Care and the exceptional caregivers who supported her during her time.
A private graveside service will be held at a later date. For those who wish to make a donation in Mom’s memory, donations can be made to the Toronto Humane Society or the Canadian Cancer Society, a charity she actively supported for many years.