Gloria Helene Howe (née Easthope)

Do you have time for a joke…You could be sure that Gloria would work this into your conversation at least once.

Born in Toronto in 1928, Gloria passed away peacefully in Barrie in her 97th year.

Growing up in Toronto, she was a force to be reckoned with.  Often found riding the trails of the Don Valley on horseback or gazing up at the clouds, she was always memorized by the natural world around her.

She worked many jobs in her early adult life, but it was as a comptometer operator at the insurance company that she met her beloved husband, William Howe, predeceased.

A woman of ambition and resilience, Gloria successfully built a career in real estate, transitioning from agent to a broker. Her dedication to her family was unwavering, and she balanced her professional pursuits with the joys and demands of lovingly raising her two cherished daughters, Mindy-Lynn Weston and Debra Smith-Hamelin.

Gloria embraced life with an infectious zest. She was vibrant, full of life, and possessed a remarkable ability to connect with people, effortlessly making friends wherever she went. Her quick wit and constant stream of jokes kept everyone around her engaged. Beyond her lively spirit, Gloria was a steadfast and reliable presence, always there to offer support and a helping hand whenever needed. She had a deep appreciation for the world around her, always embracing its beauty.

Gloria’s home was a reflection of her impeccable taste and attention to detail. Her house had to be and was always perfect.  She cultivated such an eye for design that others would often seek her expertise and ideas. After a busy day, she cherished her moments of relaxation, often found laying on the floor in a classy lounging outfit by the fireplace, the timeless melodies of Dean Martin filling the air as she savoured a scotch or Rusty Nail.

Sophistication was a natural extension of Gloria’s persona. She always presented herself impeccably, with perfectly manicured nails and beautifully styled hair, radiating grace and poise.

Gloria was the cherished daughter of the late Helene and James Easthope and a dear sister to Valerie Lent. Her memory will be treasured by her loving daughters, Mindy-Lynn Weston (Garry) and Debra Smith-Hamelin (Michael); her grandchildren, Kerri-Ann Fitzgerald (Warren), Amber-Lea Weston (Kevin), Krista-Lynn Weston, Travis-James Smith (Michael), and Jeffrey Smith (Cynthia); her great-grandchildren, Schuyler, Taylor, Dallas, Cooper, Rhys, and Rylee; and her great-great-grandchildren, Harper, Quinn and Everet.

Gloria also had a special place in her heart for her loving neighbours and closest friends whom she considered family over the years.

Gloria will be deeply missed for her vivacious spirit, her unwavering support, her infectious laughter…or more her skill at making you laugh…and her ability to find joy and elegance in the world. She left an indelible mark on all who knew her, and her memory will continue to bring smiles to our faces…she was genuinely the life of the party…”Do you have time for a joke?”

The family want to thank the exceptional caregivers at the IOOF in Barrie.  A Celebration of Life will be held in the summer and will be communicated at a later date.

Peaceful Transition Simcoe