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McKinlay Funeral Homes Ltd., 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham, ON (2026)

01/28/2026

Johnston: Eric Lee -

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Eric at the age of 81. Reunited with the love of his life, Sandra (May 2025), after just 260 days apart. Dedicated father to Anthony and Susan, cherished Papa to Lance, Samantha (Anthony) and Dylan and Great Papa to Adora, Meadow and Ryker.

Predeceased by his parents, Cecil and Florence Johnston, and his brothers Edwin (Elaine) and Lawrence Johnston, as well as his sisters-in-law Linda Lusk and Diane Boughner. Survived by his sister-in-law Germaine Johnston, brothers-in-law Glenn Lusk, Bob Boughner, Edward Davies and his wife Olwen. Special ‘Big Uncle’ to niece Jane and her family, along with many other nieces and nephews. ‘E’ will also be deeply missed by Leah Makra and her children, Reese and Jake. Eric also leaves behind his true bestie, his grand dog Maisie who was always by his side whenever they were together.

Eric was born in Ahmic Harbour and moved to Wallaceburg in the early 60s. He worked at Wallaceburg Delivery Service and Broadbent Moving before taking a job with the Lambton Kent School Board as a custodian where he worked for 35 years.

Eric was a well-known figure in the community. He was a member of the Optimist Club of Wallaceburg for almost 60 years, a coach of the Youth Bowling Association (YBC) including the Master Bowler Association for over 40 years. He also coached Minor Baseball for 10 years. Eric was a member of the SOS committee and enjoyed working Mom’s Baby Cupboard. He also was involved in 2 Bingo Associations spanning 30 years.

Eric was a man of few words. He loved the Detroit Tigers, going to the ‘slots’ and taking care of those around him.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation at McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St Clair Street, Chatham, on Saturday, January 31st, 2026 from 2:00-4:00 pm and 7:00-9:00 pm.

A Memorial Service will be held at McKinlay Funeral Home on Sunday, February 1st, 2026 at 11:00 am. In keeping with Eric’s love of Detroit sports, those attending are invited to wear their favourite Detroit team apparel.

Interment will take place Saturday, April 4th , 2026 at 11:00am at Morpeth Cemetery, 12637 Talbot Trail, Morpeth.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Eric’s memory may be made to CKHAF Save Our Sydenham (Wallaceburg Redevelopment Project) or a charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home

459 St. Clair Street, Chatham

519-351-2040

01/28/2026

A resident of Chatham, Noreen Jacklin passed away at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance on January 26, 2026 at the age of 74.

Born in Chatham-Kent, Noreen was the daughter of Murray and Mabel (née Murray) Jacklin.

Beloved wife of Norbert (Norby) Bechard for 27 years.

Dear mother of Michelle (Joey) and Michael (Becky); and stepmother of Ken (Susan), Laura (Kevin) and Rob (Heather). Proud grandma of Colton, Spencer, Garret. Ian (Chelsea), Jarrod, Abbey, Cheyenne and special mémé of Sam.

Cherished cousin "chosen sister" of Carol (late Bill) Smith.

Noreen enjoyed dancing, golfing, gardening and her fish pond.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be planned for a later date.

Donations made in memory of Noreen to the Kidney Foundation would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040

01/26/2026

Davis, Marguerite Gwendolyn (Gwen) (nee Sutcliffe)

A resident of Chatham, Gwen Davis passed away peacefully at Riverview Gardens with her family by her side on January 24, 2026 at the age of 88.

Born in Paisley, ON, Gwen was the daughter of the late Hugh and Marguerite (Peggy) (nee Acton) Sutcliffe.

Beloved wife of 49 years to the late Fred Davis.

Gwen will be lovingly remembered by her children Anne (David), Sharon (Bob), Bill (Corrine), Kathy, Brian (Shannon) and Steven (Teresa). Proud grandmother of Jacob, Sarah, Katrina, Jennifer, Matthew, Adrienne, Merissa, Lena, Nigel, Leland, Peter, Petroula, John, Bryan, Brandon, Brock, Stephanie, Adele, Jessica and Amanda and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and many, many friends. She will be sadly missed by her sister Brenda and brothers Brad, Wendell and Tom.
Predeceased by her brothers Ron and Paul and sisters Verl, Marilyn and Cheryl.

She was born in Paisley, Ontario on September 24, 1937. Growing up Gwen loved to play hockey and was the goalie of the Hepworth Women's Hockey Team. She was the best big sister to her siblings and had an extra special bond with her sister Brenda, who she helped deliver. Gwen was a longtime resident of Chatham, Ontario where she worked and volunteered at various places. Gwen was dedicated to her church and very active within the church community, offering end-of-life and spiritual support, mentoring, prayer and love and comfort to numerous brothers and sisters of the fellowship community. In her spare time she loved to read, do word search puzzles, watch game shows and classic TV shows.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home, 459 St. Clair St., Chatham on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 from 2:00-4:00 & 6:00-8:00 pm. Funeral service to be held at the funeral home on Thursday, January 29, 2026 at 11:00 am. Interment to follow at Maple Leaf Cemetery.

Donations made in memory of Gwen to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040

01/23/2026

Brodie: Susan Leigh -

The family of Susan Leigh Brodie is heartbroken to announce her passing on January 19, 2026 at the age of 71 at Windsor Regional Hospital - Met Campus. She passed peacefully with the love of her family by her side.

Born in Chatham, Susan was the daughter of the late Vern and Rosemary (née Kehoe) Brodie.

Loving sister to Scott (Julie) Brodie and Alleta (Vince) Schiller.

Susan will be dearly missed by her niece and nephews, Holly, Jay, Dylan, Deacon, Matt, Nick, and Jack. She loved them as if they were her own.

She will be missed by her extended family and so many friends near and far.

Susan’s skating life got an early start with blades hitting the ice at 22 months of age and spending her early years with the Chatham Figure Skating Club. She went on to be hired by Ice Follies/Disney On Ice in December 1972, taking her to all corners of the world. Her career took off as a performer and eventually she found her way throughout the company evolving into roles as Company Manager and Performance Director. Susan left the road for a short time in the late 90’s and settled in Las Vegas where she was employed by the Bellagio Hotel in the showroom for the Cirque du Soleil show ‘O’. Ultimately the love of the ice show called her back to the road.

When asked when she would finally settle down, she would always answer with a smile “when I stop having fun”. Susan eventually did retire in 2019, bringing her home to her mother Rosemary, family, and friends where she continued to embrace the true spirit of life, family, faith and her deep love of nature.

A Celebration of Susan's life will be held at the funeral home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at 12:00 pm, with visitation from 11:00 am until the Service time. Interment to take place at Maple Leaf Cemetery at a later date.

Donations made in memory of Susan to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation or to a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040

01/23/2026

Tamminga: Hilco Theodoor -

A resident of Louisville, and formerly of Florence, Hilco Tamminga was suddenly called home to Christ on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at the age of 54, after joyously completing his earthly task.

Born in Zuidhorn, The Netherlands, Hilco was the precious son of the late Talo and Jitske (née Buist) Tamminga (2019).

Beloved, cherished husband and soulmate of 31 years to Ann (née Koster).

Loving, proud, and devoted father to Jodi, Josh (Justinne), Kyle (Emma), Lauren Pennings (Tyler), Nathan (Keira Baker) and Annika (Blake Slingerland).

The absolute best Opa to Haven, Lennon, Austin, Ella, Carter, Baby T and Baby P.

Hilco had a deep love and respect for his father and mother-in-law, Adrian and Ietie (Bos) Koster.

Dear brother to Talo (Dineke), Bill (Marian), Jake (Lorraine), Rene, sister-in-law Marsha, Diane (Allan) Bergsma and Gerry (Dawn).

Brother-in-law and loving friend to Anita (Ralph) Bos, Jackie (Mark) Malott, Bob (Michele), the late Mike (2021) (Jenn), Ken (Jackie) and Lynne (Pete) Jans.

A cherished “uncle Pickle” who showed up with love, laughter and open arms for each of his nieces and nephews.

Beloved “Super” to many teams, Jamaican brothers and Thai friends. A listening friend to many.

Hilco loved his “sweet Annie”. She was his best friend. Showing his unwavering love to her daily, and never failed to make her feel special.

Hilco will be remembered for His faith, generosity, thoughtfulness, support and care. He had a passion for life and importance of experiencing all the good. He always went the extra mile and had the ability to make everyone feel at home, make everyone feel loved and make everyone laugh.

Hilco loved Jesus.

He lived, loved, worked, and served with his eternal calling in mind.

Every task or responsibility was done exceeding the standard. The very best husband, father, opa, uncle, friend, leader, role model and man for everyone he crossed paths with. He lovingly took genuine care of every single person he met, viewing each one as created in the image of God. He was so gifted and happy to be Jesus’ hands and feet to them.

Hilco was a gifted and respected leader in the greenhouse industry, wearing his faith on his sleeve. Leading by example and hard work. His intentional kindness and love for people created beautiful teams that together accomplished wonderful things. His humility never took an ounce of credit for these things, all the glory and praise was directed heavenward. His family was his pride and joy, he would do whatever necessary to make their days and lives better.

All of God’s blessings to him were used for others. Hilco inspired us all to love like Jesus.

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭15‬-‭17‬

Family will receive friends at St. Paul's Discover Life, 450 Park Ave W., Chatham on Monday, January 26, 2026 from 2:00 - 4:00pm and 6:00 - 8:00pm.

A Burial will be held at 11:00am on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at Mayhew- Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Thamesville. A Memorial Service will follow at St. Paul's Discover Life in Chatham on Tuesday at 1:00pm with Pastor Arjen Vreugdenhil from Eben Ezer Canadian Reformed Church officiating.

A link to the live-stream of the service will be available on the Funeral Home website.

Donations in memory of Hilco can be made to Journeys Recovery Home and Safe Families - two organizations extremely dear to Hilco’s heart.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040

01/23/2026

Margaret (Nee Bax) Herfst, July 28, 1933 - January 21, 2026

Passed away peacefully from pancreatic cancer at the Chatham-Kent Hospice on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at the age of 92.

Margaret was the daughter of the late Jack and Adriana (Nee Verhoog) Bax.

Beloved wife of the late Albert Herfst and mother of the late Paul Herfst.

Loving mother of Robert (Denise).

Proud Oma of Courtney (RD), Jessica, Ashley, Levi, Lydia, Sydney, and Aubrey and Great-Granddaughter Liara.

She will be sadly missed by her siblings Gertie (Wielhouwer), her best friend and sister Jean (VanHelden) (Peter), Clarence, Bernie (Tina), Herb (Janet), Hank, and Frits (Jan).

Predeceased by her identical twin sister Mary (Hummelen), sister Joanne, and brothers Jim, and Art.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home, 459 St. Clair St., Chatham on Sunday, January 25, 2026 from 2:00 - 5:00pm. A Funeral Service to be held at the First Christian Reformed Church, 25 Tweedsmuir Ave East, Chatham on Monday, January 26, 2026 at 11:00 am, with a visitation from 10:00-11:00 am. Interment to follow at Maple Leaf Cemetery, Chatham.

Donations made in memory of Margaret to the Chatham-Kent Hospice would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040

01/23/2026

Hatt, Marie “Ruby” (née Hatt)

Marie “Ruby” Hatt of Blenheim passed away peacefully at the Blenheim Community Village on January 18, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer, at the age of 79.

Born in Colchester South Township, Ruby was the cherished daughter of the late Leonard and Velma (née Jenkins) Hatt. She grew up surrounded by farm life, which she deeply loved, and she especially treasured time spent visiting her close family’s farm—a place that brought her great comfort and happiness throughout her life.

Ruby will be lovingly remembered for her devotion to family, her gentle spirit, and her kind, caring nature. She leaves behind many friends and family members who will miss her dearly and hold her memory close to their hearts.

Donations made in Ruby’s memory to the charity of your choice would be gratefully appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be shared at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com.

McKinlay Funeral Home
141 Park Street, Blenheim
519-676-3451

01/23/2026

Collins: Jack

A lifelong resident of Ridgetown, Ontario, Jack Collins passed away at the Village on the Ridge on January 20, 2026, at the age of 81.

Jack was born to the late Gilbert and Jean (née Luther) Collins and was a cherished member of the Ridgetown community throughout his life.

He was the beloved husband of the late Bonnie Collins, with whom he shared a devoted and loving marriage. Jack was a proud and caring father to Mark and Lisa Collins, Matthew and Marisa Collins, and Meredith and Parry Cadotte. He was a devoted Papa to his treasured grandchildren, Aidan, Xander, and Ethan, who brought him great joy.

In keeping with Jack’s wishes, cremation has taken place. He is now reunited with his beloved Bonnie, and a private graveside service will be held at a later date.

Donations made in memory of Jack to the Diabetes Canada would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home
76 Main Street East, Ridgetown
519-674-3141

01/21/2026

Debiasi: Mirella Paola (née Peruzzo) -

A resident of Chatham, Mirella Debiasi passed away with family at her side at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance - Chatham Campus on January 19, 2026 at the age of 85.

Born in Momiano, Italy, Mirella was the daughter of the late Bruno and Maria (née Ritossa) Peruzzo.

Dear wife to her late husband of 56 years, Ugo Debiasi.

Loving Mother to Daniela Debiasi, Ugo (Deborah) Debiasi, Roberto (Dorothy) Debiasi, and the late Bruno "Brunetto" Debiasi.

Caring Nonna to Jennifer, Julie, Shawna, Nicole, Rebecca, Kristofer, Summer, and Morgan.

Great-Nonna to Gracie-Mae, Rori, Elliot, and Leland.

Sister to Josephine and sister-in-law to Precilla, Slavka & Penny.

She will be missed by many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.

As per Mirella's wishes, cremation has taken place. A Private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Donations made in memory of Mirella to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation or to Salvation Army Canada would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040

01/21/2026

Joan Keating

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Joan Keating.

Born in Waltham, Massachusetts in 1935, she emigrated with her parents to Cape Breton, Nova Scotia where she married Gerald Keating in October of 1952. Together, they embarked on the building of a family, which ultimately defined both of their lives. Their first son, Larry, was born with Spina Bifida, and lived only 4 days. While this tragic start stayed with her throughout her life, she and Gerry persevered and went on to have an additional five children: Dave (Jeannette), Greg (Gean), Eric (Sandra), Debra, and Ray (Carole). She also leaves behind fifteen grandchildren and eighteen great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her devoted husband Gerry, infant son Larry, her parents Dan and Gertrude, her brother Danny and her sister Barb.

Throughout the years, whether in Sydney, NS, Moncton, NB, or Chatham, ON, she was a devoted volunteer for a host of different causes, many of which found their roots in her faith in the Roman Catholic Church. She had deep convictions, but was also willing to give of herself and her time in support of them.

She was our matriarch: wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt and friend, and she was fierce in her love for all in her sphere. More simply though, she was Mom, Nana or Joan and all of us who had the privilege of sharing time with her will be worse for her absence.

Family to receive friends on Thursday, January 22, 2026 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 95 Marlborough St N, Blenheim from 1:00 - 2:00 pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at 2:00 pm. Cremation has taken place with a Private Interment in Evergreen Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations made in memory of Joan to the Heart & Stroke Foundation would be appreciated.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home
141 Park Street, Blenheim
519-676-3451

01/21/2026

Marchand: Sharon Loretta (née Masse) -

A resident of Chatham, Sharon Marchand passed away peacefully at home with loved ones at her side on January 17, 2026 at the age of 66.

Born in Leamington, Sharon was the daughter of the late John and Frances (née Dobmayer) Masse.

Beloved wife of 45 years to Larry Marchand.

Loving mother to Holly Marchand.

Adored dog mom to Lucky.

Sister to Cindy, Harold and Herman.

She will be missed by extended family and friends.

Sharon to an avid collector of antique toys, She loved nature and took great joy in the plot of land she bought that was dedicated to planting tree. Sharon was a crafty soul, she enjoyed needle point, cake decorating, crocheting and cross stitch. Sharon was knowing for the best homemade canned pickles winning first place at the Comber fair. She enjoyed working in the shop with her husband, always finding new project to tackle together.

Family to receive friends on Friday January 23, 2026 the Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham from 5:00 - 8:00 pm. to Celebrate Sharon's life.

Sharon's wishes were to be cremated.

Donations made in memory of Sharon to the C-K Animal Rescue would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040

01/17/2026

Morrish: Annie (née DeCorte) -

At ninety-eight and a half years of age, the passing of my mother, Annie Morrish at 12:55 am on January 13th, 2026 is the end of an era for our family. And although we mourn this loss our spirits are lifted in the knowledge that she lives on in us.

In spite of being predeceased by my father Albert and my brother Bob far too soon my mother had a kindness and sense of humour that belied these tremendous losses. She had an indomitable spirit and strength that served her well her entire life. But for me her most endearing and admirable quality was her selflessness – her innate ability to put others ahead of herself. She was very proud of her volunteerism which included but was not limited to ten years in Cubs, twenty three years at the Blenheim Community Village and twenty five years as the foot care coordinator at the Blenheim and Community Senior Centre.

My mother was a genuine, true to herself, one of a kind person that touched many lives. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that she cherished her role as the beloved Grandma Curly to my son Ben and my daughter Emily. I am very grateful that I was able to spend so much time with my mom in the last five months of her life and looked forward to our nightly cribbage games which if the stars were aligned ended with us each winning a game.

This is not goodbye but rather ‘Rest in peace mom…you have earned it !’

In closing I would like to offer my heartfelt thanks to my mom’s caregivers at the Blenheim Community Village, Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, Westmount Gardens and Victoria Hospital in London. The importance and oftentimes thankless nature of your work is not lost on me.

A private family interment at Evergreen Cemetery in Blenheim and a celebration of life in London for family and friends will take place at a later date.

Donations made in memory of Annie to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home
141 Park Street, Blenheim
519-676-3451

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