Diana Sherwood (née Simmons) passed away peacefully on October 22nd, 2019, with her family by her side and a deep appreciation for having lived a long and full life.
She married her first love, Eddy Nadalin (1958), at age 18 and had four children, Debbie (1999), Brenda, John (Cathy) and Teya, before being widowed at age 24. She married her second love, Thompson (Tom) Sherwood (2003), and had two children, Linda and Bradley (Shelley). Diana was delighted to have her grandchildren, Sara, Aryana, Kayla, Emily, Sherwood, Thompson, Haven and Scarlett, in her life as well.
Family was Diana’s priority. She spent most of her life, from when she was a small child, caring for others ahead of herself. But when she was able, she explored the world, seeing sights from Las Vegas to China, including more than a few glamourous casinos. She got a special thrill from the slot machines, and she always looked forward to jaunts to Niagara with her friends. She loved her friends dearly, and they were the common thread among many of her favourite pastimes, including Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, weekly bowling league, Friday night Rummoli games and the birthday club.
While our mom faced many hardships through her life, she seemed invincible. Through her strength, she taught us to be strong. Through her compassion, she taught us to care deeply for others. Through her relationships, she taught us empathy and respect. Through it all, she reminded us of the importance of family and friends – and the need to accept and love one another without question. Thank you, Mom, for sharing your life and wisdom with us. The world is better for having you in it, and we are truly grateful.
Many people helped Diana overcome her physical challenges over the past two years, and we appreciate them all. Thank you to Mom’s regular support care, Larissa, Jenny, Loraine, Iztahmay and Kelly, and to the nurses and staff on the fourth and fifth floor of Guelph General Hospital for your amazing care during our mother’s final days.
A private funeral service will be held at Gilchrist Chapel – McIntyre & Wilkie Funeral Home, with the burial at Woodlawn Memorial Park. Friends and family are invited to attend a memorial gathering to celebrate Diana’s life on Sunday, October 27 at the Guelph Country Club at 133 Woodlawn Road East between 1 and 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Parkinson Canada www.parkinson.ca would be appreciated by Diana’s family.