Vanessa Louise Turnbull
February 26, 1965 - July 23, 2026
Funeral Details: A Celebration of Life will be held at the Dorian Parker Centre, 227 Sunnidale Rd., Barrie, on Sunday August 16th, 2026, 2pm-4pm. Words of Remembrance will begin at 2:15pm.
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 (Irene) and the late Jessie. A devoted wife and partner of Mike for 24 wonderful years. She was a loving mother to Tiryn and Noah-Marie (Cameron), 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 tens of 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 16th, 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/
Peaceful Transition Simcoe
Barb Macdougall(Garton)
Posted on: Monday, August 10, 2026Our deepest sympathies xo
Marilyn Wilson
Posted on: Monday, August 10, 2026My sincere condolences on the sudden the loss of Vanessa. So much talent gone forever. My thoughts and prayers to all of the family.
Sherry & Graeme Findlay
Posted on: Tuesday, August 11, 2026We are so very sorry for the loss of Vanessa. Our prayers are with you all during this most difficult time.
Samantha Sampson
Posted on: Tuesday, August 11, 2026Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Sending the entire family so much love, strength, and comfort. ❤️ Forever remembered xo
Julie James
Posted on: Friday, August 14, 2026I remember Vanessa treating us as her own, while we were all busy fooling around in our pre-teen years. I always felt so deeply loved and cared for by this family, and I will forever be grateful for the time I got to spend with Vanessa. Noah, I still consider you my sister for life. My heart aches for your family. I love and miss you all, and I’m thinking of and praying for you. Xo
Bob French & Diane Lahey
Posted on: Wednesday, August 12, 2026Sincere condolences to Rand and Family.
Carolyn Watt
Posted on: Friday, August 14, 2026Huge hugs to Irene, Bill, Rand and family…sending love and condolences
Cristin, Leo & Donna
Posted on: Friday, August 14, 2026There are no words that really make a loss like this any less painful. Just know we’re thinking of you and the entire family and sending our deepest sympathies.
Jamie and Heidi Valee
Posted on: Saturday, August 15, 2026Thinking of you all and so very sorry for your loss.
Jamie and Heidi Valee
Posted on: Saturday, August 15, 2026Thinking of you all and so very sorry for your loss. Sending love.
Viththaka Baskaran (Career Centre)
Posted on: Friday, September 4, 2026My deepest condolences to Vanessa’s family and loved ones. She was a truly wonderful person, and I feel fortunate to have known her. Her kindness and warmth will be remembered. May she rest in peace, and may her loved ones find comfort and strength during this difficult time.