Phyllis Perkins

June 4, 1932 - May 30, 2026

It is with love and gratitude for a life well lived, that we announce the passing of Phyllis Perkins. Phyllis completed her earthly journey on May 30, 2026, in Barrie, Ontario, just days shy of her 94th birthday.

Phyllis was born on June 4, 1932, in Toronto, Ontario. Throughout her life, she embodied resilience, kindness, faith, and a deep appreciation for family, friendship, and community.

As a young woman, Phyllis embraced adventure and the outdoors through the Guiding movement, enjoying hiking, biking, and the companionship of fellow Guides. She was also active in her church youth group, played tennis, and formed friendships that would remain treasured throughout her life.

Phyllis married the love of her life, Norman Perkins, and together they built a home and raised their family in Markham, Ontario. She devoted herself to her children while also working as an administrative assistant for many years. Family was always at the centre of her world, and she found great joy in nurturing, supporting, and celebrating those she loved.

One of the family's most cherished places was the cottage they built in the Kawarthas. What began as camping trips before a structure stood on the property, became decades of treasured memories. There, family and friends gathered to swim, explore, laugh, and connect with nature. The cottage became a place where children and grandchildren developed their own love of the outdoors and where countless stories were created around campfires, meals, and various adventures.

Phyllis also enjoyed a lifelong love of bridge. For many years, she gathered monthly with a circle of dear friends whose companionship enriched her life. Together they shared cards, laughter, travel, theatre outings, and adventures across Canada. These friendships were a source of great joy and support.

A woman of deep faith, Phyllis found comfort, purpose, and community through Grace Anglican Church. Her church family was an important part of her life, and she attended faithfully for many years. It is fitting that her life will be celebrated in the place where she felt so much peace and connection.

Phyllis faced life's challenges with quiet determination and remarkable strength. Time and again, she demonstrated resilience, adapting to change while maintaining her warmth, humour, and grace. In her final days, surrounded by the love of her family, she chose her time to leave this world. We find comfort in knowing she is now reunited with those who went before her and held forever in God's eternal love.

Phyllis was predeceased by her beloved husband, Norman Perkins; her daughter, Nancy McGill; her son, Glenn Perkins; and her grandson, Shawn Ritter.

She leaves behind her loving daughters, Catharine Ritter (Chris Ritter) and Vicki Perkins (John Paczkowski); her son-in-law, Steve McGill; her grandchildren Stephanie Chalmers, Andrew Ritter, Ryan Ritter, Nicole LaPorta, Sandy McGill, and Emma Paczkowski; her great-grandchildren Rylan, Abbie and Noah Chalmers, Willow and Holly LaPorta, Elijah Ritter, and great-great grandchildren Greyson and Salem Chalmers.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff and caregivers who supported Phyllis during her final days.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 9, 2026, at Grace Anglican Church, Markham, Ontario. Visitation will take place from 10:00–11:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. A reception will be held afterward in the church hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Phyllis's memory may be made to Barth Syndrome Foundation of Canada  or Grace Anglican Church

Phyllis leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, friendship, resilience, and family. Her gentle presence, caring heart, and unwavering devotion to those she loved will be remembered always.