In Celebration of

Lilianna Vera Turczyniak

June 23, 1956 -  December 26, 2025


Lilianna Vera "Leila" Turczyniak passed away peacefully after a short illness on December 26, 2025, in Stratford, Ontario. Born and raised in Bradford Ontario, she lived a life marked by compassion, dedication, and service to others.

Leila pursued her education at York University, where she earned a degree in English and completed Teacher's College at University of Toronto. Her passion for learning and commitment to nurturing young minds led her to a fulfilling career as a teacher at Michael Power High School and Father Redmond High School in Toronto. For over 30 years “Miss T” inspired generations of students as an English/Drama teacher and Director of school plays.

Beyond the classroom, Leila was deeply involved in her community. She volunteered with the Stratford Friends of the Festival contributing her time and energy to enriching the cultural life of Stratford where she retired to. A proud member of Plast, the Ukrainian Girl Scouts organization, she carried forward traditions that celebrated her heritage while fostering leadership among youth.

Leila was also active in charitable causes close to her heart. She always helped to raise funds for the Canadian Cancer Society, demonstrating her enduring spirit of generosity and care for others. Her love of travel brought her joy and broadened her perspective on the world—a passion she often shared with family and friends.

Leila is survived by her sisters Oksana Stein, Christina Chisholm, her brother Andrew Turczyniak and her loving extended family and close friends. She was predeceased by her beloved parents, Tadej and Irene Turczyniak.

A woman of great heart who gave selflessly throughout her life, Leila will be remembered for the love she shared so freely, her passion for the arts and the lives she touched so deeply. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and cherished her.

Friends may call at Turner & Porter – Yorke Chapel, 2357 Bloor Street West, Toronto on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 2-4 & 6-9 p.m. Panahyda 7 p.m.

A Funeral Service will be held at St. Demetrius Church, 135 La Rose Avenue, Etobicoke on Friday, January 9, 2026at 10 a.m. Interment to follow at Park Lawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations would be very welcome at the Canadian Cancer Society.

Online condolences may be made at www.turnerporter.ca

Guestbook 

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Wilma de Young (volunteer connection thru Friends of the Festival)

Entered December 30, 2025 from Stratford, Ontario

Dear Andrew, Chris and families:
Condolences on the passing of your loved one, Leila. I will remember Leila as wearing a smile and wearing a stylish hat. She was a warm, friendly person and an optimist at heart. I am thinking of you as you mourn her passing.
Sincerely,
Wilma de Young

Laurie Brown (Neighbour)

Entered December 31, 2025 from Stratford

My sincere condolences to Leila’s family.Leila was a lovely person and she was always very friendly when we would chat around the building.She had a wonderful way to engage people in conversation,which was always interesting.What a sudden tragic loss for our community and her family.Laurie Brown

Katie Flynn-Akelaitis (Student Friend)

Entered December 31, 2025 from Mississauga

It is hard to articulate what Miss T and Lily meant to all of us. As a student of hers in both the classroom and on the stage, she was a presence of calm and strong confidence that was inspiring. She made you feel like you could do anything because she was sure you could. And you never doubted what Miss T said. What a privilege it was to learn from her and be influenced by her passion for the arts. As a kid, Lily was the most beautiful and coolest teacher at Redmond…dressed usually in black with a shawl of hot pink, and impeccable hair and nails, she spoke about Shakespeare like it was the best entertainment you ever read. She had a way of lecturing that made you want to hear more. She was funny and sarcastic and you wouldn’t dare be late for her class or turn something in late. You didn’t want to disappoint Miss T. Becoming an English teacher myself and then getting the chance to work with her in the English Department and then having her teach me how to direct a play, are memories that I will cherish forever. Her stories of her love for her nieces and nephews, Stratford, travel, plays and of course books, will be missed by all of us who had the privilege to be near her light. All my love and condolences to her family on this sudden and tremendous loss. God bless you Lily. Thank you for all that you taught us and gave us…You are loved and will be greatly missed.

Gail KwaitkowskiFisher (Friend)

Entered December 31, 2025 from Stratford

My sincere condolences to Chris and her family. I enjoyed meeting Leila and found her very interesting.
Her personality brought the best out at all times.
This is a terrible loss to Chris who was her close friend and adored sister.
I will be thinking of you Chris at this very sad time.

Mary Adair (Di Fonzo) (Former Colleague)

Entered December 31, 2025 from Mississauga

I was fortunate to work with Lily at Michael Power/St Joseph HS when I started my career. Although I haven’t seen her since she moved to Fr Redmond HS I recall her huge smile and cheerful presence. She welcomed me and all the new teachers with warmth and humour. She did great work in English and drama. I believe I attended a performance at Redmond. Lily was someone I appreciated as a new teacher. May she rest in peace now and may the joyful memories of her comfort her family in years to come.

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