Yvonne Marie Gilliland (nee O’Reilly), fondly known as “Bonnie,” passed away peacefully with family by her side at Hillsdale Terraces on Friday, December 20, 2024, at the age of 89.
Predeceased by her beloved husband, Bruce Gilliland, she was the loving mother of Cindy Ouellette (Robert), Mark (Lucille), Colleen Hudson (Mark), and the late Sharon Rose. Devoted grandmother of Katherine Koopman (Steve), MaryRose Ouellette, Adam Hudson (Malorie), and Jacob Hudson, and cherished great-grandmother of Abigail, Natalie Koopman, Charlotte, Max Thaler, and June Hudson.
Survived by her sisters, Rosemary O’Reilly and Patricia Neil, Bonnie was predeceased by her siblings Pauline Carter and Joseph O’Reilly.
Bonnie will be remembered for her kindness, selflessness, and sweet nature. Her humor and notorious one-liners brought smiles to everyone she met. She delighted in sharing comical and endearing stories of her childhood, and her grandchildren often encouraged her to “write a book.” Bonnie cherished her memories of growing up in Lindsay with her siblings.
A true animal lover, she enjoyed feeding backyard birds and squirrels and found comfort with one of her beloved cats curled up in her lap. Bonnie was an avid letter writer, often penning a dozen or more letters weekly, including notes to authors, correspondence with royalty, and heartfelt messages to loved ones near and far.
Bonnie was immensely proud of her Irish heritage, devoted to her faith, and found joy in the simplest pleasures—especially cake. After 62 years of marriage, she deeply missed her husband, Bruce, and often spoke of being reunited with her loved ones.
A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary of the People Catholic Church (570 Marion Ave, Oshawa) on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery in Whitby. Arrangements are entrusted to Oshawa Funeral Home, 847 King Street West (905-721-1234).
Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Oshawa Funeral Home.
