It is with heavy hearts that our family announces the passing of our beloved mom and wife, Holly who passed away peacefully after a very short and courageous battle with cancer on Thursday March 12, 2026, at the Georgian Bay General Hospital, Midland.
She will be deeply missed by her “boys”: her loving, devoted, and cherished husband of 50 years, Barry, and her much-loved sons Todd (Shawna) and Joel (Nickie). Holly was an incredibly proud grandmother to Callan, Olivia, and Tucker, who brought her endless joy. Holly was predeceased by her parents Watson and Mabel (McAnally) Hamilton, and her in-laws Warren and Lois (Boles) Norris. She was also predeceased by her brothers Edward (Pauline), Bill, Ronald, and David. She is survived by her brother Rob, sisters-in-law Marg, Reenie, Patti, and Brenda, and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends—too numerous to list but especially Debbie and Sandra.
Holly was born and raised in Long Branch and Port Credit and spent many wonderful summers at the family cottage during her younger years. She made her permanent home off Duck Bay Road some 45 years ago. Holly was truly an inspiration and a dedicated person in everything she did. Her infectious smile, wit, and determination touched everyone she met. She was an enthusiastic sports fan and spent countless hours in arenas and ballfields cheering on the teams that Barry, Todd, Joel, Callan, Olivia, and Tucker were part of. She was also a devoted fan of Maple Leafs hockey and Blue Jays baseball and enjoyed watching curling and her favourite television shows.
One of Holly’s favourite pastimes was feeding the wildlife that visited her deck—her beloved “chippies,” along with blue jays, cardinals, woodpeckers, chickadees, and even the occasional flying squirrel—while playfully heckling the other squirrels who tried to sneak in. Holly also loved the outdoors and enjoyed taking strolls along the trail with her Pole Walking group. Another of Holly’s great joys was the beach. She loved walking along the shoreline, searching for seashells and sea glass, and simply enjoying the peaceful beauty of the water. Holly loved to travel, especially cruises. Over the years she enjoyed nearly 40 cruises, spending the equivalent of more than a year at sea exploring the world.
She gave generously to her community, volunteering for 15 years at the Gateway Centre for Learning in Midland, where she also served as a board member. More recently, she was a member of the Waubaushene Legion Ladies Auxiliary. Holly was also a dedicated member and Past Matron of the Eastern Star, Dunerin Chapter OES in New Toronto for more than 35 years, and in her younger years she was a Past Worthy Advisor of Primrose Assembly #8 of the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls.
Throughout her working career, Holly served as an administrative assistant for several companies in the city. She later became the owner and operator of Duck Bay Camp, followed by a role at Christie’s Mill. Most notably, she was the longtime and devoted personal secretary to Barry.
Holly will be remembered for her warmth, humour, generosity, and the love she shared so freely with her family and friends. Her presence made every gathering brighter, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
The family appreciates all the care & support Holly received from all the staff at Georgian Bay General Hospital, Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, the Hudson Regional Cancer Centre, and wish to recognize Dr. Myrehaug & Dr. Stevens for their dedication & compassion towards Cancer, and Nurse Practitioner Allan Graham of North Simcoe Family Health Team.
Following cremation the family will honour Holly with a celebration of life at Mount St. Louis, Moonstone on Sunday April 12th from 1-4pm. The “Boys” will share their memories at 2:30pm.
As an expression of sympathy donations in memory of Holly may be made to the Georgian Bay General Hospital Foundation, Midland or to the “Ladies Auxiliary” of the Royal Canadian Legion, Beaverbrook Branch #316, Waubaushene and can be made through the Funeral Home.