Peacefully at home in Toronto, surrounded by her daughters, Georgina Finlay (née Fisher) passed away after a long and remarkable life.
Beloved wife of the late Tom Finlay (2004), she was the loving mother of Marion, Noreen (George), and Sheila; proud grandmother of Shona, Kirsten (Johnny), Liam (Kelsie), Konnor (Melissa), and Hunter; and delighted great-grandmother – or Nanny GG – of Drew.
Born in St Andrews, Scotland, Georgina emigrated to Canada with Tom in 1952 as newlyweds ready to build a life together. Just three years later, while starting her family, she began teaching her first Scottish country dance class in the backyard of her Toronto home. What started as a modest gathering grew into a lifelong passion.
Over the decades, Georgina introduced thousands of children, teenagers, and adults to the joy, elegance, and camaraderie of Scottish country dancing. Her demonstration team, the Finlay Dancers, performed internationally, with highlights including appearances at Disney World and the opening of Toronto’s SkyDome.
Her choreography was featured in film and television, and she was invited to lead teachers’ workshops across North America.
In 2004, she was awarded the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society’s prestigious Scroll of Honour in Perth, Scotland, recognizing her contribution to Scottish dance and music.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Georgina loved golf, travel – especially returning to her beloved St Andrews – and any time spent with family and friends.
On her 80th birthday, she celebrated by walking the edge of Toronto’s CN Tower, a testament to her adventurous spirit.
Her greatest joy remained her family, whom she raised with love and humour, and the generations of dancers whose lives she touched. She will be remembered for her artistry, wit, humour, and indomitable energy.
The family will celebrate Georgina’s life privately. If desired, a donation may be made to the Cancer Society or Alzheimer’s Society in Georgina’s name.
We especially want to thank the PSWs who looked after her during the past few years, and acknowledge the excellent care she received from her family doctor Paul Frydrych, and oncology surgeon Dr. Laurence Klotz.
