She died on July 10, 2026 at Humber River Hospital where she valiantly fought for her life in the presence of family. Her passing was preceded by the death of her husband, Benedetto Celeste Cancelliere, in 1987. Armida had a severe stroke in December 2018.
Armida Cancelliere is survived by her children Tony (Antoinette), Andy, Anna (Robert), Pina, Mafalda (Paul) and Lidia (Peter). Armida’s greatest joy were her grandchildren (Laura, Celeste, Diana, Evan, Emma, Rowan, Sabrina, Matthew, Liam, Michael, Chris, Ben and Ava) and her great grandchildren (Julian, August and Elio – and there’s a baby girl expected in December!).
Armida was born in the pristine mountain town of Castelpizzuto, Molise. Her father, Enrico Succi, ran a store and was the mayor of the town. Like many other families in the small town they farmed and lived off the land. Armida was swept off her feet by Benedetto Cancelliere. A true love story, they became engaged and married in Canada on March 27, 1953. They had an enviable relationship – always on the same page and totally devoted to their children. Armida made all of her children feel loved and special and there is no better launching pad for a child!
Armida and Benedetto directed all of their children to pursue postsecondary education and all obtained university degrees. Her happiest moments were births, her children’s graduation ceremonies and Easter and Christmas when she would go on a cooking rampage for days on end.
Armida had an extensive network of close friends despite having limited time (she was always cooking, cleaning and tending to her children). She was sought after as a close confidant and as a patient listener and coveted friend. She was a star at funerals and weddings with scrums continually around her until the ceremony began. Armida had a true and genuine belief in God, praying daily. With a solid base of principles including fairness in interacting with others, communication, rule following and taking the perspective of the other. Consistent with her core Catholic beliefs, she would often say “It doesn’t cost anything to be nice.” If we were ever struggling her motto would be “Keep Moving” and she did. Always fighting for her family.
The saddest day of Armida’s life was the loss of her cherished husband, Benedetto, at the unconscionably early age of 60. Armida outlived him by 39 years and not a day went by without her missing him.
Armida was a very compassionate and caring individual. Her empathy for others was experienced immediately by everyone. She felt deeply for those in need and for the vulnerable. Her belief in God lifted her hope and kindness to the highest levels.
Armida was the best mother a person could have. She epitomizes the phrase Blessed Mother. She was our spokesperson, supporter and best friend. Her absolutely unshakable love for her husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren has become her unique and precious legacy. We have embraced her love, wisdom and strength of spirit which will guide us in our daily challenges for the rest of our lives.
Visitation
Wednesday, July 15, 2026 from 3:00 pm – 5:00p m & 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Funeral Mass – Chapel of St. Joseph (within the Funeral Home)
Thursday July 16, 2026, at 10:30 am
Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home
211 Langstaff Road East, Thornhill, ON, L3T 3Z6
Entombment
Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery
8361 Yonge Street, Thornhill, ON, L3T 2C7
