It is with profound love and sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother and sister, Colleen Taylor, on February 18, 2026 at 71 years of age. She faced ALS with remarkable courage and grace until her passing. She passed peacefully surrounded by her family.
She was predeceased by her parents Charles & Lillian Townson and her loving husband, Robert John Taylor. Together they built a family rooted in love, laughter, and unwavering support.
She leaves behind her three children, Jason, Lisa, and Christopher, who were her greatest pride. Her grandchildren—Emma, Ainsley, Nathan, Oliver, Hudson, and Aidan—were the light of her life. Nothing brought her more joy than being “Grandma.” From sweet treats baked with love to cozy afternoons spent together, she created memories her grandchildren will carry forever. She is survived by her siblings William (Dianne) Townson, Carole (Richard) McLean, Fred (Dianne) Townson, Darrell (Terry) Townson, many much loved nieces, nephews and extended family in both Canada and the US, as well as her partner of 10 years, Stanley Simmons.
She was an avid baker whose kitchen was often filled with the comforting aroma of homemade cookies, cakes, and family favorites. Baking was her love language, and no one ever left her home hungry. She was a devoted Toronto Blue Jays fan, cheering passionately through every season, and she never missed an episode of The Young and the Restless, faithfully following the lives and drama of her favorite characters for years. Throughout her working life she has touched the lives of many seniors, co-workers, colleagues and community members who will miss her friendly, joyful, outgoing personality.
Though ALS gradually took her voice and physical strength, it never diminished her spirit. She faced her illness with resilience, dignity, and quiet determination, continuing to show her family what true strength looks like.
She will be remembered for her warmth, her fierce love of family, her sense of humor, and the comfort she brought to everyone around her. Her legacy lives on in the traditions she started, the recipes she passed down, and the deep love she gave so freely.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the ALS Society of Canada (ALS Canada).
She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Oshawa Funeral Home, located at 847 King Street West, Oshawa, ON, L1J2L4, Canada. The service is scheduled for February 20, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
