In Celebration of

Edith Baxter

December 30, 1927 -  November 3, 2020

Family matriarch and die-hard Toronto Maple Leafs fan, Edith Baxter passed away on November 3, 2020, at home, surrounded by her family. Born Edith Newman in Usti nad Labem, in the former Czechoslovakia, on December 30, 1927, Edith spent her youth in England before coming to Canada at the end of WWII with her husband William, her parents and sister.

Emotionally she never recovered from the loss of her son, Timothy (1994), but her commitment to family and tradition, her fierce loyalty and love, as well as her quiet strength, are all part of the legacy she leaves to those left to mourn. This includes her beloved daughter Wendy McClung and son-in-law David, daughter-in-law Kathy Baxter, her grandchildren Michael Baxter (Jill), Amy Wilkinson (Craig), Emily McClung (Jim), Caitlin McClung (Dave) and Mitchell McClung. But her greatest legacy might just be her eight great-grandchildren: Timothy, William, Christopher, Sabine, Jackson, Maeve, Beatrice and Henry.

Together with William, Edith founded Baxter Publications, which over the last 70 years evolved into a most trusted media company in Canada. Well-respected in the industry, her work afforded her the opportunity to travel the world. This along with her voracious appetite for current events and politics kept her mind sharp and her wit on point right up until her final days.

Many will feel her loss including her cherished extended family and close friends, the staff of Baxter Media and her travel industry colleagues. The family wishes to thank MaryAnn, Marilou and Eva - along with all her wonderful caregivers - for the incredible care and compassion they provided Edith over the last couple of years.

In addition to her son, Edith was predeceased by her husband William (2004), beloved parents Gertrude Baumann (1973) and William Newman (1974) and her sister Melita (1996).

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations in Edith’s name be made to St. Michael’s Hospital Foundation. Gifts can be made by calling (416) 864-5000 or online at www.stmichaelsfoundation.com/donate.

A service is scheduled for Monday, November 9, 2020 at 1 p.m. To register for the virtual service, cut and paste the following link into your browser - https://afterword.co/stories/edith-baxter/. Regretfully, due to current limits on gatherings, the in-person service will be by invitation only.

Guestbook 

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The Hon. Gordon "Butch" Stewart, Founder & Chairman, Sandals Resorts International (Friend)

Entered November 6, 2020 from Jamaica

My dear friend Lady B, Edith Baxter was full of integrity and inspiration. A special lady through and through, she was funny, smart and tenacious. I always looked forward to seeing her either in Canada or the Caribbean. Her friendship is something that I'll treasure, until we see each other again.

Adam Stewart, Deputy Chairman, Sandals Resorts International (Friend)

Entered November 6, 2020 from Jamaica

With her indomitable spirit, Mrs. B was a leader - and a legend - in the Canadian travel industry and beyond for half a century. That's an incredible achievement, something that can only be achieved by an incredible person. One that I'm proud to call my friend. Rest easy, Mrs. B and thank you.

Gary C. Sadler, Senior VP Sales, Unique Vacations Inc. (Friend)

Entered November 6, 2020 from Miami

Quite simply, Edith Baxter is an icon of the travel industry. There was no one like her and I dare say, there probably won't be again. Her wisdom (and wit) is legendary. When I migrated to Canada from Jamaica in 1992, Mrs. B helped me navigate the landscape of the Canadian travel industry. I, just like so many others, often asked for her counsel and guidance. Over the years, she became so much more than a valued industry colleague, she was my beloved friend. I will miss her greatly but my love for her will forever remain.

Maureen Barnes-Smith, Director of Sales & Marketing, Unique Vacations Canada Inc. (Friend)

Entered November 6, 2020 from Toronto

Mrs. Baxter was an inspiration, both professionally and personally. As a powerhouse in the Canadian travel industry, I'm so grateful for her knowledge and her kindness that she graciously shared with me for over 25 years. Her no-nonsense approach to business, and to life really, was something I admired about her, as well as her amazing sense of humour and her unwavering attention to the smallest detail. She is truly exceptional and unforgettable. I will certainly miss her, but I'm thankful for the time we spent together and the guidance she gave me.

Karen Fawcett 

Entered November 6, 2020 from Toronto

Wonderful picture. Great Lady one to be reckoned with. She will be missed.

Photos 

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