Sarah Anne Gleeson (nee Boyes) 1957-2022

Our beloved mother, wife, sister, aunt, friend, teacher, and unwavering confidante passed away peacefully at her home in Sturgeon Point, Ontario on April 14, 2022.  Sarah will be deeply missed by her husband, John. She was a devoted mother to Anne (Michael Kuhlmann) and George (Emma Daccord), and a besotted grandmother to George and Emma’s son, Bruce. Sarah was predeceased by her parents, Professor George and Mildred Boyes, and will be dearly missed by her sister, Mary (Robert Webb) and their children. Sarah enjoyed time spent with her mother-in-law Shirley Gleeson and was a deeply connected sister-in-law and aunt to the entire Gleeson clan. 

Born in 1957 in Winnipeg, Sarah grew up in Toronto and attended Leaside High School. In 1980, she received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Queen’s University where she was a member of the figure skating team. After earning her Bachelor of Education, Sarah found her calling as an educator. Her teaching journey led her to St. Clement’s School where she served as Head of the Junior School for 17 years; a role that could not have been more perfectly matched to Sarah. Beloved by teachers, students, and parents alike, she had a wonderful warm smile and an instantly recognizable laugh. She had a remarkable way of making every “Clementine” feel that they belonged, they mattered, and that they were inherently good people. Sarah also had a unique ability to complete her work “behind the scenes”; who you saw was a cheerful, fun-loving woman who always had time and wisdom to share with each person who crossed her path. Many, many people will forever remember “Mrs. Gleeson” as a formative influence on their education and lives.

Sarah lived her life with curiosity and intelligence. She was an avid reader, puzzler, and bridge player. She found joy in gathering family and friends, particularly during the Christmas season, which held a special place in her heart. Sarah also loved driving a golf ball, cheering on the Leafs with John, and taking regular strolls with her walking group and loyal canine companion, Sophie. Sarah’s family is incredibly grateful for the love and support of the friends who enabled her to continue these cherished pastimes over the last four years as Sarah lived courageously with ovarian cancer.

“If ever there is tomorrow when we’re not together… there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we’re apart… I’ll always be with you.”

A. A. Milne

A service will be held at St. Clement’s Church on Friday April 29 at 11 am, with a live stream available for those who are unable to attend in person - to attend the service for Sarah virtually, please CLICK HERE. Attendees are encouraged to join the Gleeson family in adorning colourful attire as a reflection of Sarah’s bright and cheerful spirit.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Sarah Gleeson Junior School Fund at St. Clement’s School or to the Odette Cancer Centre at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre.

Note that the church diocese requires masks to be worn inside St. Clement’s Church.