CALLENDER, George Reginald Archibald Callender
April 23, 1936 – January 26, 2025
George Reginald Archibald Callender, a beloved father, husband, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on April 23, 1936, in River Sallee, St. Patrick’s, Grenada, to Charles Winter Callender and Beryl Callender (nee Mahon), George was known for his unwavering kindness, unmatched work ethic, and deep love for his family.
George exhibited a natural curiosity and a passion for learning from an early age. He attended Grenada Boys' Secondary School (GBSS) and went on to the University of the West Indies (UWI) in Jamaica, West Indies. He later moved to Canada to pursue further education at the University of Toronto, where he earned his teaching credentials. His professional journey led him to a successful career in education, teaching first in Gravenhurst before spending most of his long career at Paul Dwyer Catholic High School as a teacher, soccer coach and Head of the History Department. George embraced a pedagogy of love and was devoted to his students, understanding that teaching was a form of care and education was a practice of freedom that changed lives. So many members of our community remember him as one of their favourite teachers, be it because of his patience and tolerance, or because of his sense of style.
George's dedication to his work was mirrored by his commitment to his community. He was an active member of several local organizations, including outreach and prayer for the elderly, and Service at St. George’s Memorial. His efforts in these groups reflected the values instilled in him by his parents and his desire to give back and help those in need, and to participate fully in his community.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, George's greatest joy came from his family. He married Catherine Sonia Emmanuel, who predeceased him and had two children, Céline, who also predeceased him, and Colin (married to Susan), to whom he was devoted and loving. He took immense joy in their growth and happiness and graciously supported them in all their endeavors. His West Indian friends and family, to whom he was known as “Archie,” will fondly remember Archie and Sonia’s hospitality and generosity. He loved his eight brothers and sisters immensely and rejoiced in the lives of his many nieces and nephews in New York and the GTA.
George had a wide array of interests that kept him active and engaged throughout his life. He was an avid reader. He enjoyed walking, prayer, reflection and especially travelling to the sea where he was a graceful swimmer. Nowhere was he more relaxed than when at the beach in Grenada.
George Callender's legacy is one of love, kindness, and unwavering integrity. He leaves behind a family who adored him, friends who admired him, and a community that benefited from his generosity and service. His journey was marked by his struggles with the consequences of diabetes, which he persevered through with grace and courage.
George will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His life was a shining example of how one person can make a profound difference in the world, and his memory will be cherished forever.
A visitation will take place at Oshawa Funeral Home on Friday, February 7th, from 5pm to 8pm, and a celebration of George's life will be held at St. George’s Memorial Church on February 8th, 2025, (51 Centre St S, Oshawa, ON L1H 3Z9) at 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Diabetes Canada, reflecting George's commitment to improving the lives of those who also suffer from this disease.
