Tribute Wall
In Memory of
Mrs. Nellie Pariea Francis
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Jason Pearman uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, August 9, 2026
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I was reacquainted with Aunty Nellie right before starting university: a quick 48hr stop-over before my parents dropped me off at university 1.5hrs away from 254 Centennial. In the 25+ years since, Aunty Nellie and Uncle Ron continued to open their home and their hearts. They were alway just a greyhound bus or car drive or train ride away.
In those early days, it was almost always Aunty Nellie who’d meet me at the house to let me in: we’d catchup over tea before the house would get busy.
I could come for a short or long visit and always leave feeling refreshed and grounded.
In between visits she’d check in on me - as she did with so many others - to share a moment, share a laugh, give me a boost. I especially loved an email that she sent me during the pandemic on my birthday.
It reads:
“Dear Jason, I know you had a birthday on Monday. Here I am a few days later checking in on you and wondering how you are doing. How did your summer unfold? How did it go so quickly? Let's not tire ourselves about the past. I'm sure it went well. Let's move on and say cheers for another and to many more to come. We are okay. All the best, J. You are the best. Stay as sweet as you are and Hi to Marissa and your two little angels. Ron sends his love. Picture taken in a nearby park. Nell.”
No one can replace the Nellie touch, but she has left us with such wonderful memories that will endure.
Love to Uncle Ron, Julie-Anne and Thandi and their families; to the Niles family members that have lost an exceptional sister, cousin and aunt; and to the many communities where Aunty Nellie was an active member.
Jason A. Haynes Pearman
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Joan Curry posted a condolence
Friday, July 31, 2026
Nellie - a wonderful and compassionate woman. I have many memories of times spent together in our choir. Nellie had a great sense of humour and she shared that quality with her acquaintances. She was so understanding if you were going through a challenging time. She would offer a word in season. I am grateful for her friendship - true and caring - and always with understanding words and a loving smile. I will hold those memories of a special woman in my heart always. Joan
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Emanda Richards lit a candle
Wednesday, July 22, 2026
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Nellie (and Ron) have been lifelong friends of our family. As a little girl, I remember thinking just how beautiful and fashionable Nellie was. As an adult, I could fully appreciate her beauty that emanated from the inside, out. I remember talking at length to her as she sat by my mother, Esther's, bedside at the hospital during her final days in 2011. Nellie spoke to me with so much hope and warmth, radiating love, kindness, and wisdom. I'll never forget that special moment with you, Nellie. My whole family will miss you, dearly. Here are pictures from my Dad's 80th and 90th birthday parties.
Emanda Richards
Edwin & Ethleen
Eleanor & Elaine
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Yolanda Hindle posted a condolence
Monday, July 20, 2026
Dear Ron, Thandi, Julie and family,
For over 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of singing with a truly remarkable woman in our community choir the Bel Canto Singers. Nellie was a kind, gentle and endlessly caring person, full of grace and inspiration. As a nurse, she personally touched countless lives including mine when her compassion helped me recovery from major surgery. Her beautiful voice, that beautiful smile and joyful spirit inspired everyone around her. I believe she was an angel on this earth, and now she is singing with the angels in heaven. She is deeply missed and will always be lovingly remembered.
Her friend,
Yolanda Hindle
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Corinne Williams uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, July 18, 2026
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Nellie was on shift in the delivery room when I was born, almost 47 years ago. She and my mother, Jeanne Williams, worked together at Centenary Hospital and became fast friends. Some of my fondest childhood memories are from the Francis home. My sister Stephanie and I playing with Julie-Ann and Thandi, while my father George and Ron discussed politics and religion all while my mother and Nellie were engrossed in their own conversations filled with giggles and laughter. I am so thankful to Nellie for the years of friendship that she shared with my mother. She physically held her up when we buried my father and Nellie was one of the last people to see my mother before she passed. I will always cherish our special "birth day" bond she will forever be loved and missed.
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Gillian Mason uploaded photo(s)
Friday, July 17, 2026
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Monica Sobers posted a condolence
Friday, July 17, 2026
Condolences to Ron,Julie and Sandy.
From Monica Sobers ( nee Niles) and family in the United Kingdom.
God Bless You.
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Jessica Anderson posted a condolence
Friday, July 17, 2026
Very kind and compassionate always greet you with a smile she will be missed
Love and God's Blessings to the family Deepest condolences
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RUBY MAYNARD posted a condolence
Friday, July 17, 2026
My dear Nellie you will be missed, from our school days and during your terms as president of the alumni association, you blessed us with your leadership, grace , inner beauty and calming presence. Rest in Peace
Ruby
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Joan Alleyne posted a condolence
Friday, July 17, 2026
I would like to extend my condolences to Ron and all the family.
I have known Nellie since school years, she has remained a friend also the President of our Association, Toronto branch.
Throughout the years Nellie has remained that sweet and gentle person.
Rest in Peace Nellie
Joan Phillips-Alleyne
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Deborah Anand uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, July 16, 2026
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I fondly called her as “Mama” as she was a mother figure to me from the time I met her in 2010.
She guided me with wisdom when needed and comforted me when I was sad or troubled and blessed me in countless ways just being there for me.
Her home was always open to me
Her heart was filled with thanksgiving as I always heard her singing
Her feet were ready to run to help others in their need
There are many other memories that I hold close to my heart Mama !
You lived by example and firm Faith
I thank G-d for your life and testimony
May your memory be a blessing to many
My heart felt condolences to Uncle Ron and Thandi and Dr Julie and the grandchildren
May the Lord comfort you in your grief and loss.
John 11:25
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, yet shall he shall live”
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Tony and Margaret Brathwaite posted a condolence
Thursday, July 16, 2026
We extend our sincerest condolences to Ron and the entire family on the passing of Nellie.
Nellie was a gentle and caring person whom we were delighted and honoured to have as friend for over 20 years. It was always an uplifting experience to chat with her. She had a beautiful voice and we always enjoyed her singing in the St. Dustan’s Church Choir where we first met Nellie.
Nellie, may you rest in peace and rise in glory
Margaret and Tony
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Erma Rayes-Henry uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, July 15, 2026
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Yohance Henry uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, July 15, 2026
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From the Henry family we are sorry to hear of auntie Nellie’s passing and we express our deepest sympathy. She was the kindest person we ever knew. May her sole rest in peace. God bless you all.
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Michele uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, July 15, 2026
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Heartfelt condolences to Nellie's family and all who knew her. I will miss Nellie for her warmth, caring, positivity, kindness, strong faith and the passion she exuded for the many causes she championed, such as health and wellness, nursing, youth and seniors. She always described the world around her in such poetic, beautiful terms. I got to know Nellie through her involvement with the Barbados St. Michael School Alumni (Toronto). At the time of her passing she was the President of the association and my mother, Gloria Went, was the Vice-President. Here is a picture of Nellie posing with Gloria Went and Ruby Maynard (Treasurer) and other pictures of her presiding at various St. Michael School Alumni events. May she rest in peace.
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Charles Forde Posted Jul 17, 2026 at 10:36 AM
It is not easy saying goodbye to someone you have known almost all your life. I remember Nellie from our youthful days growing up in the Hillaby Adventist church. Nellie was calm , thoughtful and deeply spiritual. She was a guiding light in our MV department (now AY). We really valued her contribution to the Hillaby church and we will always appreciate her guidance and leadership. I express my profound sympathies to Ron and the entire family. May God circled you with his mercy and love.
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Erma Rayes-Henry posted a condolence
Wednesday, July 15, 2026
Nell and Ron you have always been dear friends to us. May God comfort this family. You have our deepest sympathy. Nellie has left us too soon. With love… The Henry Family. Windsor. Ontario.
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Marcia Linton posted a condolence
Wednesday, July 15, 2026
Lorna, our sincere condolences to you and your family on the loss of your cousin Nellie. May all the beautiful memories keep you smiling. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Marcia & Merline
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Yvonne Hutchinson uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, July 14, 2026
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Photo:Avis Rodney, Yvonne Hutchinson and Nellie Francis
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Frank Niles posted a condolence
Tuesday, July 14, 2026
The life of Nellie, my sister, was the quintessence of peace, grace, and love, but above all, love. Music was the song and joy of her heart. The Beatitudes were exemplified in her life and Christ was central. Her life was well lived. My wife, Alexis, and I will miss her dearly.
Peace and love.
Frank and Alexis.
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Linda Meyer posted a condolence
Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Dearest Nellie,
As your choral director I could always count on you to be there with your beautiful smile. The choir couldn't see it.......but I could and it gave me joy!
Now, you're singing with the angels and still spreading your joy.
Miss you!
Linda
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Petra posted a symbolic gesture
Monday, July 13, 2026
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My heartfelt and deepest condolences to Mr. Francis and the family. We share in your grief like mom Nellie did for many of us. May she Rest in the Arms of the Almighty.
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Yvonne Hutchinson posted a condolence
Monday, July 13, 2026
I met Nellie over 50 years ago in Toronto. At the time, we were both newly arrived immigrants to Canada. We developed an easy friendship, often reminiscing about life in the UK. She had a good sense of humor, and I always found her to be sharp and witty. Nellie was sensitive and caring.
Later, although we were separated by a distance of over 450 kilometers, we occasionally kept in contact by phone. Our relationship was rekindled about five years ago when I contacted her about my sister’s 50th wedding anniversary celebration. She was one of the bridesmaids at the wedding and was delighted to reconnect with us.
Nellie was always caring and sensitive. She had a curious mind and demonstrated an interest in a wide range of hobbies that included music and gardening. She also knew how to enjoy a good laugh.
I will miss you dear friend. Rest in peace! May her memory be a blessing to not just Ronald, their children, and grandchildren but to all those who were fortunate enough to have known her.
Your friend,
Yvonne Hutchinson, Montreal, Quebec.
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Cecily Corbin-Gittens posted a condolence
Monday, July 13, 2026
Condolences to the family and friends of Nellie, friend and until recently, President of our St. Michael School Alumni.
Nellie was a beacon of inspiration to the Association and a refreshing addition to the group. May her contribution to those whose lives she touched live on in their memories .
She will be greatly missed.
Rest in Peace, my friend, and rise in glory.
Cecily Corbin-Gittens
SMS toronto
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Beth Galloway lit a candle
Sunday, July 12, 2026
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Thandi and family
I’m so deeply sorry for your loss
May Nellie Rest In Peace
Forever in your thoughts and prayers
Take comfort in all your memories!
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Deanna Sudmals uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, July 12, 2026
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She may have been known by other names, but I wanted to honour the names people I know and love called her by. Love, from across the oceans, Deanna and family
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Steven McNeil posted a condolence
Sunday, July 12, 2026
Q: What will you miss most about Mrs. Nellie?
A: Her beautiful singing voice.
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Avis Rodney uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, July 12, 2026
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Dear Ron and family,
It is with heartfelt sadness I learned on Monday of the sudden passing of Dear Nell. We have lost a shining light in this often dark world.
I give thanks to God for the years of friendship I have been blessed to share with Nellie. On August 15th it will have been 55 years since she stood as one of my beautiful bridesmaids. Her kind, gentle presence will be greatly missed. The simple pleasures we have shared in our mutual love of poetry, music, star-gazing, unique plants and flowers, will live on with me forever. Most importantly, I will forever cherish our deep bond of faith, friendship, love and dedication to family and to God.
“Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile” (Albert Einstein)
This truly epitomizes my Dear Nell!
Nellie’s last note to me on June 11th was her re-assurance that her spiritual connection with God assured her of the fact that she knew “who she belonged to and where she was going”! Amen and Amen!!!
Sleep on Dear Friend. You will be forever missed. You will never be forgotten. You are forever loved.
Avis Rodney
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Maureen Lee-Grant Posted Jul 14, 2026 at 8:13 AM
Dear Ronald and family, words cannot express our grief and gratitude. We loved Nellie and will miss her smile, her poems and her loving warmth. May the Lord bless her and keep her safe in His loving arms. Alfred Grant and Maureen Lee-Grant.
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Noel Brathwaite Posted Jul 14, 2026 at 2:19 PM
The passing of Nellie is shocking. Memories are fresh from White Hill to Hillaby to England to Canada; from church to profession to marriage and family; from sweet music to endearing smiles and laughter. A soul to cherish!! A legacy to sustain.
Nellie you will be missed. Rest in peace. See you in the morning!!
Noel Brathwaite
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Madelyn Reynolds posted a condolence
Sunday, July 12, 2026
Sending my heartfelt condolences to the Francis family at this sad time.
Madelyn Reynolds
Kelowna BC
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Bramora Rebello posted a condolence
Sunday, July 12, 2026
My deepest condolences to Nellie’s family and loved ones. I was fortunate to get to know Nellie as a member of the Bel Canto singers. Though I only knew her for under a year, her kindness and thoughtfulness shone through. She took the trouble to talk to me and get to know me. I wish I had more time to get to know her better.
Nellie, you will be missed.
Bramora Rebello
Bel Canto Singers
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Alison Cordier uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, July 11, 2026
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Nellie Francis was an aspirational woman. She embodied the qualities that I strive to achieve. Nellie helped me when I was grieving the death of my mum, 11 years ago. She knew when I needed a chat and when I was too upset to talk but still needed support. Her depth of faith inspired me. When we attended a particularly moving Palm Sunday service a free years ago, she gave my hand a squeeze and held my gaze as she served the elements. I felt so moved by her deep care for me at that moment. During our parish's search for a new minister in 2021, Nellie was an integral part of the process. She not only attended our town hall meetings, she also provided deep and critically important insight and supported our spiritual journey by adding her beautiful voice in song to our discernment. She radiated love. Our world has lost a beautiful soul.
Alison Cordier
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Linda Coles posted a condolence
Saturday, July 11, 2026
Joy,
So sorry for the loss of your Aunt. May your precious memories of your experiences together be a blessing for you at this difficult time.
Sincere condolences to you and your family.
Linda Coles, PhD
St. John’s, NL
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Naomi Gomez uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, July 11, 2026
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In Loving Memory of Our Beloved Nanna Nellie
Our hearts are deeply saddened by your passing, yet we rejoice knowing that you are now safely in the presence of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
You were more than a cherished member of our church—you were family to us. Thank you for loving our family so deeply and for welcoming us with kindness, grace, and unwavering faith. Your prayers, encouragement, and gentle spirit touched our lives in ways we will never forget.
It was one of the greatest blessings of our lives to be with you until your final breath, praising God together. Even in your last moments, your life pointed us to Christ. That sacred time will remain forever in our hearts as a beautiful testimony of faith, hope, and the promise of eternal life.
Though we grieve your absence, we do not grieve without hope, for we know that one day we will see you again in the presence of our Heavenly Father.
"Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord." — Matthew 25:23
Thank you for loving us so well. We will miss your beautiful smile, your melodious voice praising God, your powerful Sunday school teachings, your steadfast faith, and the love you so freely gave. Until we meet again, may you rest in the everlasting peace and joy of Jesus.
We continue to sing praises of our Creator God in memory and legacy of you Nanna with the songs and words you taught us.
With all our love and deepest gratitude,
Noel, Desdemona, Ayven, Ayren, Aymen and Naomi ❤️✝️
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jane matthews posted a condolence
Saturday, July 11, 2026
Nellie had a heart of gold and lived it with finesse. Despite her busy schedule, she always found time to be of assistance to those who need it. She will be sorely missed. Condolence to those who will miss her the most.
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Gillian Mason posted a condolence
Saturday, July 11, 2026
To Nellie’s Family:
My sincere condolences on the loss of your dear Nellie. The world has lost one of the finest people I have ever had the privilege to know. I hope that the wonderful memories of the kind, generous, creative and joy-filled person she was bring you comfort now and in the years to come. Nellie was one in a million. I will miss her presence terribly.
Sincerely,
Gillian Mason
Alto, Bel Canto Singers
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Sabrina I. Superville uploaded photo(s)
Friday, July 10, 2026
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Condolences to Bro. Ron Francis & family & our church family. A beautiful lady. Friendly. I’ll keep the memory of the Scarborough SDA Church Seniors Picnic 2026 where Sis. Nellie was all bubbly & lively. Will always remember her on that day. God’s comfort to the entire Francis family & church family.
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Sonia N Lawrence posted a condolence
Friday, July 10, 2026
I met Mrs. Francis when I was at my most awkward, in my early teens. As the mother of my lifelong friend Julie-Ann and her sister Thandi, she embodied so many of the qualities I hoped one day to possess: elegance, intelligence, accomplishment, strength, humour, and an effortless ease with people. She was a brilliant host, with an open door and a gift for making everyone feel welcome.
I never lost that first sense of awe. Her voice was uniquely beautiful, and her laugh rang with a deep delight in life.
You might not have known she was a nurse, but you would have recognized the qualities immediately. In almost any situation, she knew what needed to be done, and she knew how to do it.
All my love to her family and descendants in this moment of grief. I see you carrying her remarkable qualities forward.
Sonia Lawrence
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Carolyn Ward posted a condolence
Friday, July 10, 2026
On behalf of Ainsley Andre and I. I want to express our deepest sympathy to all the family. We will always cherish the memories of Nellie's support for our family during Andre's stay in the hospital. I will miss her beautiful smile and big beautiful afro as well as her words of encouragement and advice. Rest in peace. Carolyn Ward.
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Yvonne Whitfield uploaded photo(s)
Friday, July 10, 2026
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Our teatime together, your laughter and words of wisdom will be cherished forever. Thank you for the love that you shared. As l have told you before, when l grow up, l want to be just like you.
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The family of Mrs. Nellie Pariea Francis uploaded a photo
Thursday, July 9, 2026
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