A bright light of love, laughter, and joy has gently dimmed on earth and now shines among the stars. Sylvia passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on February 18, 2026, at Credit Valley Hospital in Mississauga, Ontario.

Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, on January 29, 1937, Sylvia lived an extraordinarily vibrant and adventurous life. She embraced the opportunity of living in many countries, immersed herself in different cultures, and formed lifelong friendships wherever she went.

Sylvia was predeceased by her beloved husband of 40 years, George Mason, and by her cherished partner of 21 years, David Evans. She was a devoted mother to her three adored children: Kathy (Ed), Paul (Lisa), and Scott (Debbie). She was a loving and proud “Nan” to Kayla (Shaun), Jenny (Tyler), Eliza (Garrett), and Lucas (Emma), and a most devoted “Gigi” to Rachel, Mason, Gabriel, Archer, Corbett, Fiona, and Caitlin.

She leaves behind her dearly loved sister, Sharon Bernard, along with nieces Tracey (Pino) and Shelley of Ottawa. She is also remembered fondly by her nieces and nephews in Scotland — Linda, Lorna (predeceased), Donald, Leonard, and David — and by Tracey and Leonard in Edmonton.

During their years together, Sylvia and George raised their growing family in Quebec City; Park Forest, Illinois; Etobicoke; Yokohama and Kure, Japan; and London, England. After more than 15 years abroad, they returned to Canada and settled in the Erindale Village community in Mississauga, which became a cherished and meaningful part of their lives.

Heartfelt thanks are extended to the “Villagers” whom Mum held close: Colleen P., Chris T., Debbie and Gopal K., Anna, Alex, and Michael S., all of whom filled her final years, months, and days with love and care. Special appreciation is also extended to Mayor and the PSW staff at Nucleus Home Care for their exceptional support and the joy they brought to her life. And of course, Mum treasured her bridge friends, both in person and around the world. Even as her mobility declined, she continued to build friendships globally while playing online bridge on “Trickster.”

Sylvia was blessed with many talents. She was a Master of Ikebana, a Master Bridge player, and a Master of the Japanese Tea Ceremony. She loved to cook and to entertain generously — whether welcoming neighbours, dear friends, ambassadors, or politicians. Everyone was always welcome at her table.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Turner & Porter "Neweduk-Erin Mills Chapel, 1981 Dundas Street West, Mississauga, on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. A reception will be held an hour prior to the service from 10a.m.-11a.m. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, and celebrate a life that continues to bring smiles to our faces and warmth to our hearts.

A livestream link will be accessible closer to the service date.