Obituary of Esther Marie Finn

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Esther at the FJ Davey Home on Tuesday, September 9, 2025 at the age of 88. She was surrounded by love and is now reunited with her loving husband of 62 years, Stanley. Loving mother of Mary Lou Kennedy, Debbie Lloyd (Bill), Dona Mathewson (Blair), and Carleen Cameron. Beloved grandma of Bradley (Lisl), Jeffrey, Logan, Spencer, Riley (Caleb), Liam (Danielle), Cassidy, Paige and Grant. Great grandmother of Clara, Theo and Aubrey. Predeceased by her parents Mary and Alexander Gillis. Sister of the late Aggie Rahal (late George), Buddy Gillis (Connie), Louise MacNeil (Gerry), late Linda Abernot (Dennis), Barbara Winsor (Doug), Margaret Young (Donnie), Leo Gillis (Ann-Marie), Jamie Gillis, Donna Gillis (Al), Donnie Gillis (Debbie), late Eddie, late Martha and the late Jimmy. Sister-in-law of the late Betty MacDougall (late George). Adored by her many nieces and nephews, cousins, and countless friends.

To know Esther was to know strength, resilience, and unconditional love. She was authentic, supportive, and courageous, always putting her family first and creating a home filled with warmth and laughter. From growing up in a big family in Cape Breton to moving to Ontario with four little girls in tow, Esther poured her heart into every place she called home. She was hardworking and dedicated, whether painting apartments on MacDonald Avenue, perfecting her many crafts, like quilting, bunka and ceramics, or keeping her mind sharp with games of cribbage and Scrabble. Esther was always on the go, active and full of life. She loved to play golf and spend time outdoors - particularly at her beautiful cottage on Diamond Lake, a cottage that she herself had designed, and where her presence will be forever felt by her friends and family. Over the years, road trips back and forth to Cape Breton were filled with joy and memories. She cherished her many friendships from the Group Health Centre, where she worked for many years and shared countless good times. Esther was also a devoted Blue Jays fan, she never missed a game, and her love for tradition shone through every Christmas, whether making meat pies with her daughters, sharing Cape Breton pork pies with her grandkids, or simply enjoying the magic of the season with her family.

The family extends special thanks to the staff at Apple 1 for their kindness and care. Esther truly lived her life to the fullest and left a legacy of love, strength, and joy that will never be forgotten.

A private family service will be held with inurnment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Group Health Centre Trust Fund or the Alzheimer Society of Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma District.

Arrangements entrusted to Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Northern Rd, 705-945-7758).