It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Edward Thomas Jessop, age 78, on May 6th, 2026, at Health Sciences North, surrounded by his loved ones. Ed was born in Toronto on September 3rd, 1947, to Edward Thomas and Mabel Helen Jessop (née Alexander).
Ed is survived by his sons, Jay (Julie) and Mark (Chista) Jessop; his grandchildren, Emma (Andrew), Kaden, and Carly Jessop; and his sisters, Carol Kahar (George) and Lyn Swift (Graeme).
Ed will be greatly missed by his very close friend Nancy Gunn, with whom he shared many years of his life, as well as by her children, Renee Barrette (Mike) and Clayton Gunn (Maya). He will also be deeply missed by his longtime friend, Marty.
Ed was predeceased by his beloved younger brother and best friend, Tommy, and by his canine companions of many years, Boomer and Patches, whom we know greeted him once again with wagging tails.
Before his retirement, Ed taught with the Sudbury Public School Board and was well known for his warm smile, kindness, and generosity. He often shared fond memories of his time teaching and took great joy in creating meaningful experiences for his students through field trips and community outings.
In retirement, Ed especially enjoyed wood carving and created many beautiful birds that he lovingly gifted to family and friends, making keepsakes that will be cherished forever. In the summer months, he had quite a remarkable green thumb. He grew abundant vegetable gardens that he was always proud and eager to share, along with the many delicious preserves he made from his harvests.
Ed had a deep love for the outdoors and found great joy in spending time in nature. He cherished time at camp with his family, where he was always ready to lend a helping hand, enjoy an ice-cold Caesar, and create lasting memories with those around him. He also loved spending time on the trails with friends, enjoying numerous leisurely ATV rides.
Ed had a passion for travel and sightseeing, returning home from his adventures with countless stories to share and beautiful photographs that you could only dream of to accompany them. In the winter months, he was an avid hockey fan and a dedicated season ticket holder for the Sudbury Wolves. He shared many memorable games with family and friends. Moments that will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
When you are growing up, your parents teach you many things in life, but they can never teach you how to say goodbye. Until we meet again — Dad, brother, and friend.
A Celebration of Life is being planned for the summer. Family will provide the date and location once details are confirmed.
We offer our deepest condolences to Jay and Mark on the passing of their father, to Kay, Nancy, and many others who mourn our younger brother.
Ed’s journey began with significant challenges; he was born with Celiac disease during an era when the condition was largely misunderstood by the medical community. By the age of two, his health had declined so severely that his future seemed uncertain. In 1949, long before the convenience of Google and the internet, our mother miraculously located a specialist in Toronto. Through her devoted, loving care and a strict diet of white rice and curds and whey, Ed began to thrive. His older sisters, Lyn and Carol, adored him and remained vigilant in protecting him from any ‘bad food’. Our parents were immensely proud of the man he grew to be.
Throughout his life, Ed faced various health obstacles with remarkable grace and persistence. We feel privileged to have shared so many meaningful years and family milestones with him, regardless of the physical distance between us. Ed found great fulfillment in his career as an educator, and we took great pride in his professional accomplishments and the accolades he received for his teaching.
In his retirement, Ed discovered a passion for bird carving. He became a truly talented artist, and we cherish the beautiful carvings he gifted to us.
Though he was taken from us far too soon, we will always remember his warm smile and his hearty laughter. Rest in peace, our dear brother.
With love, Carol, Lyn, and Graeme
June 8, 2026
Nancy and family,- very sorry to hear Ed has passed. He was a kind & caring friend and neighbour. I will miss finding a bag hung on my front door knob filled with fresh green beans, or a zucchini from his garden , maybe even a goodie he had baked that day. He was a helpful neighbour and a special man. Rest in peace Ed. We will miss you. Thank you for all you have done for us over the years. Carol & Mike Giroux
May 12, 2026