Nancy Elizabeth Mallett, educator, archivist, world traveller and storyteller, died peacefully, on March 3, 2026, at the age of 96, with family and friends by her side.

Born in Toronto to George Stuart Mallett and Anna Margery Mallett (nee Doran), she will be dearly missed by her younger brother, Fred (Kathie); nieces and nephews, Sandra (Paul), Ted (Rosie), David (Kate), Andy (Anne), John (Carol), Marcia (Nezam), and Barbara (James); her 14 grandnieces and nephews, six great-grandnieces and nephews; her goddaughter, Daryl Harding; dear friend, David Grant; along with extended family and friends. Nancy was predeceased by her sister and brother-in-law, Joan and Allan McNabb; her niece, Janice McNabb; and by her honourary brother, Chris Bryan-Brown (survived by Susan).

Nancy led a full life and was a force in everything she did. She was a naturally curious woman with an exceptional memory and a gift for connecting people and nurturing meaningful relationships. She was a volunteer extraordinaire, earning the Governor General’s Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers. She spent most of her teaching career in the Toronto inner-city, pioneering child welfare and development-based programs with a particular expertise in playgrounds, all in addition to her regular duties. Always an educator, in retirement she taught and lectured internationally and later volunteered her time to the St. James Cathedral archives, which carries her name, devising many memorable exhibits to share its rich trove of historical data with the broader community.

A funeral will take place at St. James Cathedral on March 14th, at 2 p.m., with visitation beginning at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity of choice.

Those unable to attend can view via livestreaming through the Cathedral’s YouTube channel.