It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ginette (a.k.a. Genie) Gilroy, 60, who died peacefully at the Elizabeth Center on the morning of September 15, 2023.
Genie was born on March 27th, 1963 to John and Lise Dupuis in Sudbury, Ontario.
Although she was taken from us before her work here was done, Genie lived a full life. Genie met her husband Brian on a blind date in 1980. They were married October 15, 1983 and embarked on a journey to create a life together. They lived in Toronto, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia for 3 years apiece, having their first two boys, Sean and Brad, on the East Coast. They moved back to Sudbury in 1991, where they had their third son, Jason.
If you had to pick one word to summarize Genie, it would be selfless. A fiercely protective mother, she spent the early years of her children’s lives at home where she created a one-of-a-kind loving environment. The rock and glue, she was wise and patient, teaching her boys the importance of family and hard work. Genie sacrificed her time and energy for her family. She never missed a sporting event and could be seen cheering in the stands wearing her “basketball mom” sweatshirt or sporting a wide brimmed hat at a baseball game. She was always planning gatherings with family and friends, because where there was laughter, there was love. She made sure her boys committed to one week together at camp each year, where you could be sure to hear everyone singing Oasis songs in unison from separate rooms at night.
While her affinity for sport grew out of her son’s interests, Genie’s passion laid in the arts. She was an avid painter and loved needlepoint and cross stitch. When the boys walked downstairs in the morning to get ready, they could be sure to find her in a new yoga pose. She wore art jewelry you didn’t really see other people wear, but it looked Genie. A great cook, her homemade pies and potato and macaroni salads were unrivaled. Her holiday dinners were second to none.
When the boys grew older, Genie went back to school and worked as an administrator for an auditing office. Her impact there could be felt by the close relationships she developed with those she worked with. She loved getting dressed up and going to dinner with the girls for a night out.
Genie was full of advice and loved quotes. To that end, they say you don’t always remember the things people say or do, but you remember the way people make you feel. Although you are no longer here, the way you made us feel won’t ever be forgotten. In your spirit, we will do our very best to forward the same love, patience, and compassion that you showed to others. In the words of Winnie-The-Pooh, “How lucky we are to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” We love you more than words can describe, and you will forever be in our hearts.
Loving wife to Brian Gilroy. Mother to her three sons: Sean (Rebecca) Gilroy, Bradley Gilroy, Jason Gilroy. Grandmother to Emma Gilroy. Dear sister to Corinne Dupuis, Kathleen Dupuis, and Lynn Hansen.
A private gathering will take place to celebrate her life.
Our deepest condolences. Genie (Betty!) was such a shinning light and touched our hearts for all the years our boys and families were together. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Fred and Wilma
November 17, 2023
Dear Brian and family my deepest condolences to you and your family. She will be deeply missed.
September 28, 2023
Dear Brian
Our condolences go out to you and your family.
Take comfort knowing Genie is now at peace.
Your longtime friends
Mike & Anne McGuire
September 27, 2023
Brian,
Our condolences to you and your family. We hope and pray that Genie is now at peace. Serge and Marzia
September 26, 2023
Brian and Brad, as long time clients, we feel connected and need to express our sadness at this time. May you all find peace in sharing her memories and reflecting on the wonderful days you were blessed to have her in your lives. What a beautiful tribute written to share with us all showing the true reflection of your love and admiration for her. Brian, our best to you and your sons and the entire family. The Raymond Family
September 26, 2023
Brian,
Our condolences to you and your family. We hope and pray that Genie is now at peace. Serge and Marzia Treherne
September 26, 2023
Dear Brian & family,
We were so sorry to learn of Genie’s passing.
You are all in our thoughts & prayers.
Sincerely,
Lynne & Ron Monk
September 25, 2023
I am truly sorry to hear about the loss for you and your boys. I am sure she is in a better place.
September 25, 2023
Brian, Sean, Brad and Jason, my deepest condolences go out to you guys. My thoughts are prayers are with you during this very difficult time.
September 25, 2023