She is survived by Tim, her husband of 49 years; her daughters, Elektra and Natalie, and their husbands, Paul and Rob; and her beloved grandson, Archie.
Bernadette Marie Simms came from a large and close-knit family, with six brothers, five sisters, and 37 nieces and nephews. Family was at the centre of her life, and she played an integral role in keeping that large family connected. She brought everyone together for holidays, summer pool parties, and countless other occasions, creating traditions and memories that will carry on for years to come.
Bernadette believed in living life fully and never letting anything hold her back. She faced physical challenges throughout her life, but never allowed them to define her or dictate what she could do. If there was something she wanted to experience, learn, contribute, or be part of, she found a way. She was an avid volunteer in her community, a drummer and lifelong music lover, and the first one to show up when family or friends needed her.
Many will know Bernadette through her involvement with Lafontaine, Worlds Collide, the Whitby Courthouse Theatre, Mood Swing, Reading Buddies, French classes, and the many other activities, groups, and causes she enthusiastically threw herself into over the years.
She also cared deeply about the world around her and was a passionate environmentalist. She believed in taking care of the planet and doing her part, values she carried into her everyday life and shared with those around her.
Bernadette will be remembered for her zest for life, her kindness and generosity, her determination, her curiosity, and above all, her deep love for her family and friends. She leaves behind a very large circle of people whose lives were made richer by knowing and loving her.
Visitation will be held at Giffen-Mack & Trull Funeral Home, 2570 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON, M4C1L3, CA, on September 27, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm.
A funeral service will be held on Monday, September 28 at 10:00 a.m. at Giffen-Mack and Trull Funeral Home, 2570 Danforth Avenue, Toronto.
In honour of Bernadette’s lifelong love and concern for the environment, the family welcomes donations in her memory to Tree Canada in lieu of flowers.
