Vanessa Louise Turnbull

It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Vanessa Louise Turnbull on July 23, 2026, at the age of 61.

Vanessa was the beloved daughter of Bill and the late Jessica.  A devoted wife and partner of Mike for 24 wonderful years.  She was a loving mother to Tiryn and Noah-Marie (Cam), and a caring stepmother to Justin (Amanda) and Christian.  She will also be deeply missed by her brother, Rand (Grace), as well as her extended family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.

Vanessa was a remarkably talented and creative soul whose artistic gifts knew no bounds.  An accomplished mosaic artist, phenomenal painter, and gifted sculptor, she poured her heart into everything she created.  She was also a talented knitter who delighted in creating beautiful handmade treasures for those she loved.

As an entrepreneur, she found a meaningful way to combine her artistry with compassion by creating beautiful memorial portraits and sculptures that honoured the cherished pets of grieving families, offering comfort during their time of loss.

Whether through her art, her generosity, or simple acts of kindness, Vanessa's greatest desire was to bring joy to others, whether they were family, friends, or complete strangers.

She had a deep love of nature and devoted countless hours to gardening, planting flowers, and nurturing life.  Over the course of her lifetime, Vanessa planted thousands of trees, leaving behind a living legacy that will continue to flourish for generations.  Her colourful perennial gardens were a source of beauty and happiness for all who passed by.

Vanessa's warmth, creativity, kindness, and generous spirit will be remembered always by everyone fortunate enough to know her.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Dorian Parker Centre, 227 Sunnidale Rd., Barrie, on Sunday August 16^th, 2026, 2pm-4pm. Words of Remembrance will begin at 2:15pm.

In memory of Vanessa, donations may be made to the Women and Children’s Shelter of Barrie, a cause close to her heart and one she proudly supported. https://barrieshelter.com/donate/

Online memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.peacefultransition.ca.