It is with immense sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Isobelle McGregor Gray on 14 February 2024.
Isobelle is survived by her loving son Payton James Golden, her siblings (Linda, Douglas, and Robert), Ron Golden (Payton’s father), Kathleen Fernandez (Payton’s Aunt), Roza Gray (Robert’s wife), and John Madower (Linda’s husband). Isobelle will also be dearly missed by her cousins, numerous nieces and nephews, friends, and associates.
A leader, organizer, coach, volunteer, and friend, Isobelle had an infectious enthusiasm and was very involved in a variety of groups and associations. She especially enjoyed her time with the Guelph Rowing Club, the Ontario Adventure Rowing organization, and the Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW). An avid rower herself, she shared her passion for the sport by introducing and coaching newcomers to this activity. As a rower, Isobelle travelled to South America and Switzerland and was a key organizer when Canada hosted the 2022 World Rowing Tour in Kingston, Ontario. Isobelle loved animals, art and nature and therefore cherished time with her bicycle group, book clubs, and her community here in Guelph and also Puslinch, her former residence.
The eldest child of James Carlton Gray and Jeanette (Née McGregor) Gray, Isobelle grew up mostly in Montréal where she attended Beaconsfield High School and John Abbott College (CEGEP). Studying at the University of Windsor, she graduated with an Honours Baccalaureate of Science, followed by a Master of Science Degree. After working many years in the science field as a consultant for Environment Canada, she then completed a Master of Business Administration at McMaster University and subsequently worked in various marketing managerial and executive positions.
Details regarding Isobelle’s celebration of life will be forthcoming. Arrangements entrusted to WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL (519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com).
In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Guelph Rowing Club or the Guelph CFUW would be very kind.
A tree will be planted in memory of Isobelle M. Gray in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.