RICHARDS, Gladys May - Died peacefully, age 94, in Toronto, at the Millwood Retirement Residence, on July 20, 2022.
Daughter of the late Ernest Vernon Richards and Violet Blanche Richards (nee Crocker). Sister of the late Vernon Noel Bruce Richards.
Gladys Richards was born in St. John's, Newfoundland, in 1927, attending Bishop Spencer College and Memorial University.
After studying at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, she became a successful stage actress, with performances at the Gate Theatre in Dublin, London's West End and off-Broadway in New York, as well as working in radio and film.
She then embarked on a second career as a highly regarded television producer/director for TVOntario, with many of her programmes - including the Ancient Civilizations documentary series and the Prisoner Puzzle - receiving critical praise.
Gladys was a volunteer archivist for Performing Arts Lodges (PAL), where she singlehandedly created a permanent cultural and historical record of the performing arts community in Toronto.
A keen tennis player and Wimbledon fan, she also loved to dance, taking ballroom dance lessons well into her 90s.
A generous and gracious host to family and friends, she donated to many charities, especially those focused on health, education and rights for women and girls.
Gladys' family welcomes donations in her name, to any similar organizations (such as womanone.org).
Gladys is lovingly remembered by her nieces, Glenda, Janet and Ann; great-niece, Abigail; and step-niece, Alcida.
Her memory will live on in the hearts of numerous longtime friends.
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