Avril Priscilla Grace Isaacs, our kindhearted wife, mother, nana, sister and friend, peacefully left this world, surrounded by love, on Saturday, May 22, 2021, at the age of 72. Though her body could not endure anymore, her kind heart and beautiful smile continues to live on in all those she touched.

Avril will forever be remembered by her husband, Vincent, of 50 years, her two children Giselle (Christian) and Geoffrey (Karen) and her five grandchildren whom she was so proud of, Ariel, Michael, Safia, Tyler and Lauren. Sister to Yvette (Malcom d.) Andrews, Robin (Brenda) Werkmeister, and Christopher Werkmeister.

Born to Oliver and Mignon Werkmeister in Wattegama, Sri Lanka on July 13, 1948, she was the second of four children. Avril made the courageous decision to immigrate to Canada in 1966 at the young age of 18. It was here, in Canada, that she met her loving husband Vincent and the two were married in 1970 at St. Mark’s Church in Etobicoke, Ontario. Avril was a devoted mother to her two children and a loving Nana who doted on her grandchildren every chance she had. She was close to her siblings, in-laws, and their families. The bond she shared with each one was unique and special in its own way.

Over 30 years of service with Canada Post, Avril was a hard worker. Mostly working the midnight shift, which enabled her to look after her children during the day. Taking time to enjoy life, she made vacations a priority, providing many memorable life experiences for her children, God-children, nieces and nephews. Trips to Disney World, road trips along the coasts, traveling to Sri Lanka on her own with her kids, and two wonderful trips to Hawaii with her husband. Avril enjoyed seeing and experiencing the many gifts the world had to offer.

Avril enjoyed shopping. Road trips to Buffalo which usually started at an early hour only returning home after the sun went down, was a cherished outing for all. Teaching songs to her grandkids, sleepovers with Nana, and playing crazy eights, were all things that her lucky grandchildren will always treasure. All five grandchildren were fortunate to spend time with their Nana in the early stages of their lives.

In speaking with the many people who have been touched by Avril in their lives, the words and thoughts shared are consistent by all. Kindhearted, gentle, generous and a genuine soul. She was a woman who was always true to herself, did what she could for those she loved, and did things quietly, expecting nothing in return. One of her famous sayings was: what your right hand does - your left hand should not know. She instilled many values to her children, teaching gratitude, faith, how to be humble and how to help those in need. She shared her love abundantly and led by example. She was a blessing in the lives of many. The tenacity of Avril’s approach to life and death, will continue to resonate and live on in the people she loved.

Love many, trust few, and learn to paddle your own canoe.

In Avril’s final weeks, she received medical and compassionate care from caregivers, nurses and the loving hospital staff for which we offer profound gratitude and appreciation for their kindness. We are in awe of the care that was shown.

A private service will be held for Avril for immediate family members at this time. A memorial service will be held on a future date. Details will be provided.

The family humbly requests no flowers to be sent. A simple prayer for our cherished Avril is all that is requested. May her soul rest in peace