Virginia Byers
February 1, 2025
BYERS, L. Virginia – Surrounded by family at the Louise Marshall Hospital on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at the age of 83 years. She is predeceased by her beloved husband, Leslie Byers (2024). Loving mother of Michelle Klis (Marc), Mark Byers (Joanne), and Krista Quesnel (Rob). Adored grandma of Ashley (Brock), Dillon, Wesley, Justin (Becca), Kyle, and Tutianna (Nathan); and great-grandmother of Brooklynn, Lennox, Evan, and Emily. Virginia will be missed by her brother Ron Stearne (Elizabeth), sister-in-law Jean Watson (late Bill), and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. She is predeceased by her parents Stanley & Sylvia Stearne, grandchildren Brendan, Susie, Meagan, her siblings Jack Stearne, Shirley Stephens (Ron), and sister-in-law Joyce Keeling (Murray).
Virginia was a kind and loving woman who devoted her time to her family, friends and community. She was a registered nurse and retired after 43 years of working, 36 of them at Louise Marshall Hospital. Proud ONA member, and a leader in advocating for nursing and patient rights. Virginia loved crafting, camping, and traveling. She was an active member of the Mount Forest United Church, and was always a dependable volunteer for community events.
The family would like to thank the staff of Louise Marshall Hospital, Guelph General Hospital ICU and step down unit, and Groves Memorial Hospital for the care and compassion shown to her during her brief illness.
Visitation will be held at the England Funeral Home, 294 Main Street South, Mount Forest, on Wednesday from 2:00 – 4:00 & 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held at Mount Forest United Church, 175 Queen Street East, Mount Forest, on Thursday, February 6, 2025 at 11:00 a.m., with visitation at the church from 10:00 – 10:45 a.m. Those unable to attend the service are invited to join the livestream by clicking the link below Virginia’s obituary. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Virginia are asked to consider the Mount Forest United Church, Louise Marshall Hospital Foundation, or Diabetes Canada. Online donations and condolences may be made at www.englandfuneralhome.com
Funeral Service for Virginia Byers
Condolences
My deepest condolences Mark and Joanne. I am so sadden by her passing, she was such a straight shooter and real pleasure to work with. She always had a smile and a quick quip. I was blessed to have bumped into her uptown at the grocery store, maybe a couple of weeks ago, and was such a treat to see her. She will be missed greatly.
— Lori Roefs, February 10, 2025To Ginny’s family, I was so shocked to read of Ginny’s passing. Ginny and I were friends from High School and kept in touch over the years. Coming from Chatsworth, I knew Les before she did. I have a cottage at Sauble, and Ginny would pop up any time, and I’m sure she saw me in my pj’s more than anyone else. I last saw her when she was packing up the trailer for the season in October last year, and can’t believe she’s gone. She was a GOOD FRIEND! May she rest in peace and rise in glory. I’ll miss you dear friend.
My condolences to her family, and may memories bring you peace.
Our condolences on the loss of your mother, grandmother and great grandmother. We are wishing the family all our best during this very challenging time. She was such a wonderful part of so many lives, she will be missed.
Diane and Peter Manojlovic.
My most sincere condolances to Mark, Joanne and families in the recent loss of Virginia. Her funeral service was a true testament of her "giving of self" , It was a beautiful service. May God comfort you all. Aunt Kathy
— Katherine Weber, February 7, 2025My deepest sympathy to all families in your time of sorrow
— Karen Switzer, February 6, 2025The funeral service was beautiful . Doug and I were neighbors of Les and Virginia for 12 years on Nancy street. Yes we enjoyed her preserves and her pies. Doug had a stroke last summer and Virginia stopped every day to make sure he was behaving himself,and he wasn't. 🤣 It shall be weird not having her here next season. We shared our faith in God and know she is in a better place.
— Debbie dyson, February 6, 2025Our sympathies to the Beyer family.
Virginia was an awesome person and an amazing nurse. When Andrew was little and at hospital regularily she was always there to make with patience and kindness.
She will be fondly remembered by many.
I am sorry for your loss. I live on Homewood and enjoyed your mom's company when we met at church or a wave across #89. Marjorie & family
— Marjorie Young, February 6, 2025Virginia and Les were our neighbours in Sauble for 12 years, our kids have know them almost their whole lives. Virginia welcomed us every weekend with a big hug and hello. Every week asking my kids and ourselves " what's new ". She had a way of making you feel seen and heard and loved. Always coming over to share some pie. Reileys words were very powerful to me, when we informed him of Virginias passing, he took a moment a tear slid down his cheek , he look at me tears in eyes and said. " Mom....she was like my Gramma, I don't know what to do ". Virginia had a way of making my kids feel so special and loved. Maddi said she doesn't know how she will ever be able to walk over there again, it will never be the same. We feel blessed to have been able to have Les and Virginia in our lives, we have so many special memories that we will hold onto dearly.
Our deepest condolences to Virginias family.
Rest now sweetest Virginia,
Love, Andrew, Tracy, Maddi and Reiley
Michelle, Mark, Krista and family. We are deeply saddened to hear about Virginia passing. Your mom’s heart was full of love. Having known your mom and dad all of my life we have many fond memories of them both, especially during their trip to New Zealand for our wedding. We had the opportunity to come home this past summer and spend time with your mom at the trailer. Many happy memories were created with her and my kids playing mini putt and games. Virginia was an amazing lady and will be missed by our family. Sending you all hugs and our deepest condolences 💐
— Lisa & Rob Moorby, February 6, 2025My sincere condolences to all the Byers family.
Virginia will be greatly missed by all her many friends and her community. I worked with her for many years at the LMH and considered her a valued mentor in my early years and later a friend.
You are in my thoughts at this sad time and may your many happy memories give you some comfort in the days ahead.
Cry whenever you need to but laugh whenever you can. Norma Lamont
I was so sorry to hear of Virginia's passing. She was a force to be reckoned with. Her strength was matched by her capacity to love deeply, her commitment, fierce intelligence, compassion and deep faith. My thoughts are with her beloved family in these days.
— Sheryl Spencer, February 5, 2025We were saddened to learn of Virginia’s recent passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this most difficult time. Virginia was a special person who cared deeply for her family, her friends and her church. Her contributions to our community have been countless. She will be greatly missed.
Laurie and Neil Aitken
We were saddened to hear about the passing of Virginia. She was such a wonderful neighbour, always a friendly wave and warm smile. Please accept our heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with Virginia’s family and friends.
— Janet and Jerry Polasz, February 5, 2025Dear Michelle, Mark, and Krista,
I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. I was just thinking of her not long ago, wondering if I stopped by the big house in Mount Forest, would she be there.
Your mom was my mom’s ’big sister’ at nursing school. She was always kind and helpful to my mom, Marion. I think the last time I saw the three of you, I was staying with you in your trailer at Sauble Beach. I was 11. My mom came to join us but she was so excited to be there, she was sick the whole time. Your mom took good care of her. That was the summer my mom died.
Over the years, I’ve seen your mom/your parents a number of times. She/they were always a good visit and she/they always told me what you and your families were up to. She was so proud of all of you.
Please feel free to reach out by email, if you like. I wish I had done that when your mom left one of these when my dad passed away. They were in Florida at the time. I’m not anywhere that exciting but my day is just too full for me to make either visitation or tomorrow’s funeral. Good luck getting through both.
Take care of yourselves. Again, my condolences.
Heather (Hill) Willmes
I wish to extend my sincere condolences to the Byers family. Your precious memories will keep her with you. Her Family was so important to her. Blessings from Marlyn Howard & Family
— Marlyn Howard, February 5, 2025Mark & Joanne and the Byers Family
Our sincere sympathy for the loss of your Mother. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. It was a pleasure to have known Virginia. A great volunteer for her church and community. Rev. Russell & Marilyn Rogers
Condolences to the families on the loss of Virginia
— Ken and Karen Thompson, February 5, 2025Mark, Joanne & the Byers Family…our sincere condolences on the loss of Virginia…she will be greatly missed…thinking of you all @ this very difficult time.
— Brian & Marilynne Adams, February 4, 2025As evidenced by the many beautiful messages here, Virginia touched many peoples lives and was a truly special person. Sincerely sorry for your loss
Gail and Derek
My condolences to Mark and the entire Byers family for the loss of such a special lady. It was very evident to me how your matriarch was loved by you and the whole community. She was so proud of you! Sending you comfort during this time.
— Olivia Douglas, February 4, 2025Mark & Joanne and siblings, We were saddened to hear about the loss of your Mom. She sure had a legacy as her time spent at Mount Forest Hospital. I also remember when your Mom & Dad went to visit my Mom & Dad at Waihi Beach, North Island, New Zealand. Thinking of you all Bruce & Paula Ghent
— Bruce & Paula Ghent, February 4, 2025We send our condolences to all in the Byers family. We have many good memories of your Mom and Dad and you, Michelle, Mark and Krista, over the years through McArthur/Byers friendship connections. We're thinking of you.
— Aletha and Bob McArthur, February 4, 2025Our condolences to Virginias family. She was a wonderful lady and will be missed. Jim and Paula Solway
— Paula Solway, February 4, 2025Our heartfelt sympathy to the Byers family. Ginny was one of a kind who enriched so many lives throughout her career and life. She embodied all that was good - the world lost one of the good ones! You are in our thoughts at this difficult time. Sincerely, Patti-Jo and Jim
— PJ McLellan Shaw, February 4, 2025Virginia was an active member of the H.O.P.E Committee of Wellington North and Minto. She was committed to participating in our activities to educate the public on mental health and wellness. Her contribution to our annual BBQ fundraiser was an annual commitment she would never miss. Her input into our planning and events and her dedication to our work in the community will be missed. Elsa-HOPE Committee Member and Past Chair
Our deepest condolences to the family
— Kevin Coutts, February 4, 2025Sending condolences to Mark and all in the Byer’s family on the passing of your mom and grandmother. I first met Virginia when I was a new ONA Bargaining Unit President and she was our new Local Coordinator for ONA Local 15. I was so impressed with her energy, her knowledge of the role of the union and her dedication to advocating for nurses rights. Virginia was an excellent leader and mentor. She shared her wisdom and established a solid foundation for us as a newly formed large union Local. May special memories carry you all through this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Muriel Vandepol, RN
ONA Local 15 Local Coordinator
2006-2023
Mark & Joanne & Byers' families. So sorry for the loss of a wonderful mom & grandma. She was a blessing to all who crossed her path in life.
— Ron & Janice McGuire, February 3, 2025Sending our deepest sympathies to Mark, Michelle and Krista, and their beautiful families at the loss of their mother and grandmother. She holds a very special place in my heart for opening her home to me without thought when I needed a home to go to... She will be missed,
and was deeply loved by many
We are sorry and saddened to hear of Virginia’s passing. Our heartfelt condolences to her entire family during this difficult time. We have long and fond memories of both Les and Virginia. Our special thanks to Michelle for keeping us informed.
Dear Byers Family ~ Our thoughts are with you at this difficult... cherish the memories. With Our Deepest Sympathy
— Dan & Sherry Burke, February 3, 2025Mark and Joanne, So sorry to hear of your loss. Sending condolences.
— Susan Martin, February 3, 2025Mark and Joanne and the Byers family,
We are so sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing. Virginia was truly one of a kind and you always knew where you stood with her! She will be missed by many. Sending hugs.
Greg and Vickie Mighton
Our heartfelt condolences to all of Virginia's family. I first knew Virginia in the early 80's when I started nursing at LMH. Virginia was evening supervisor and ran the diabetic clinics amongst other responsibilities. She was wonderfully caring and professional, a born leader and advocate for patients and the nursing profession. She always had a smile when you would meet her. RIP
— Brenda & Murray Calder, February 3, 2025My thoughts are with all the family. Virginia was a wonderful nurse and friend. She will be missed.
— Sharon Wilson, February 3, 2025To the entire Byers family,
My heart feels your pain. Our deepest condolences and prayers to each of you .
Virginia was a strong, caring and compassionate woman and one of my best friends . We shared many laughs, good times and many tears together. I never saw her back down from a challenge. She was a great nurse who advocated for her patients and was a strong advocate for the Nursing profession. The faith in her Church, the love for her family and the participation and support from her Community, as well as her quilting , gave her solace during some very difficult times . Peace be with you, my friend ! I shall miss you .
Sharon Fernandez and family
The Byers family, so sorry to here of Virginia's passing. We always enjoyed talking and visiting with her and Les, anywhere we met. She was a terrific nurse and care giver. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you. Love and hugs. Garn and Barb
— Garnet Troyer, February 3, 2025I’m very sorry to hear of Virginia’s passing, my condolences to her loved ones.
— Pearl Oakes, February 3, 2025Thoughts and prayers to the family, with the passing of Virginia. Lot of wonderful memories, from the days at CARSON'S camp.
Condolences 🤲🤲🤲
Wilma walsh
Mark, Joanne and the entire Byers families
Sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time
I was very sorry to hear of Virginia’s passing. She was a very caring nurse and always had a smile for you. My sincere sympathy to her family.
— Gladys Stevenson, February 3, 2025Krista, Rob and Family--I'm sorry to hear of your Mom's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
— Bonnie Quesnel, February 3, 2025Sharing in your sadness as you remember your Mom. Our thoughts are with all of you during this difficult time. Big, big hugs.
— Cathy and Frank Higdon, February 3, 2025I was saddened to learn of Ginny's passing especially as it came on the anniversary of your Dad's. I remember summer visits to see the bees at your Grandad's place in Williamsford. We are related as my Grandmother, Charlotte Hastie, was Stewart's sister. I am unable to attend the service this week but will join you on the live stream. Ginny had the biggest smile and a really happy attitude. I saw her last year at my Aunt Millie's funeral in Cambridge. Treasure your memories of her. Rest eternal grant unto her Lord and may light perpetual shine on her. Rest in Peace, Ginny.
— Donald Hastie, February 3, 2025I’m so sorry to her about your mother and grandmother passing. She was an amazing person. She was also a wonderful nurse. Heaven has just received another angel. Our condolences to the whole family. ❤️
— Shelly Hansen, February 3, 2025We are so sorry for your loss; Virginia was a marvellous lady. If we went into emerg and she was there, we felt better before anyone even saw us. She was a wonder.
— Rosemary Tanner and Raymond Langston, February 3, 2025Krista And Rob and Family :we are sorry to hear the passing of Jenny she was a great family friend and a Hugh help to our family when our parents were passing . She sure will be missed . I bet the whole Texas gang ate up in heaven playing cards , Washer toss , hands and foot, and lots of drinks and food . And lots of laughing .Jenny and Les are Back together again. Your parents love foe each other showed how long love between two people can last right up to the end .
— Julia &John Morton, February 3, 2025We are sorry to hear of Virginia’s passing. She was a wonderful, caring person.