January 28, 1943 - September 22, 2024
It is with heavy hearts and deep love that we announce the passing of Judith Patricia Holmes (Judy), on September 22, 2024. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, on January 28, 1943, to George Robert Ellaway and Lilian Doreen Ellaway (née Booker), Judy lived a life full of strength, resilience, and kindness.
At the age of eight, she contracted polio, which meant she had to wear a leg brace—something she deeply disliked. But this challenge never dampened her spirit. Mom faced it with her characteristic determination, refusing to let it limit her, and continued to live an active and full life.
Judy will be deeply missed by her loving husband, Aubrey Holmes, her sons Jason (Renae) and Ross (Julie), her brothers Rob and Chris (Alice), her grandchildren Emma, Ethan, Ryan, Brett, and Jayden, her niece Jen Cader (Azker), niece Laura Schwinghamer (Paul) and their children Mackenzie and Taylor, and many other extended family members and friends who cherished her.
As a child, Judy took elocution lessons, excelling in the art of public speaking and winning several prizes—a testament to her confidence and grace. Summers were spent with the family at a rustic lakeside resort, and later, they enjoyed camping holidays across Ontario and New England, particularly in Bar Harbor, Maine, where she created some of her most cherished memories.
In her teenage years, Judy worked part-time at a shoe store while continuing to impress us all with her talents in the kitchen. In her late teens, she began working at Stelco, gaining independence and forming lasting friendships. It was during this time that she enjoyed some of her most exciting adventures, traveling to New York with a friend and taking a trip to the Caribbean—experiences she spoke of fondly throughout her life.
Judy was a mother, wife, sister, and aunt - family was always at the core of who Judy was. She had two brothers, Rob Ellaway (and his late wife Phillipa), and Chris Ellaway (and his wife Alice). Judy and her sisters-in-law, Phillipa and Alice, formed a deep bond, becoming the best of friends over the years, sharing in life's celebrations and challenges.
One of the most important relationships in her life was with Aunt Midge. Though they were aunt and niece, their closeness in age meant they were more like sisters. Their bond brought her immense joy and comfort.
Judy was an avid cook and baker, and in her early married years, she perfected her now-legendary butter tart recipe, earning her the affectionate title of "the butter tart fairy." Her culinary creations were symbols of her love, and anyone lucky enough to have tried her tarts would agree they were truly magical. We'll never forget the joy that would fill the house when she baked her famous butter tarts or surprised us with a stunning Baked Alaska. These moments, full of warmth and sweetness, reflect the kind of person she was.
In 1999, she shared a very special trip to London with her beloved mother, Lillian, when she was 82 years old. It was a journey filled with memories that would stay with her for the rest of her life. Judy's warmth, generosity, and unwavering love for her family and friends will be missed by everyone who knew her.
She leaves behind a legacy of resilience, humor, and the ability to make those around her feel loved and cared for, often through a perfectly baked tart or a lovingly prepared meal. Though she has left us, her presence remains in our hearts, her love in our lives, and her memory in every sweet moment we shared.
The world was a better place with you in it - your passing is a great loss for us all.
Rest in peace, Mom. You will forever be our light.