LYTE, Ethel Christina

Ethel Christina Lyte passed away peacefully at Amica Little Lake, Barrie on August 12, 2025, at the age of 96 surrounded by her family. We are deeply saddened by our loss and yet we feel so blessed to have had mom with us for so many years. She was such a kind, gentle and incredible mother, and an inspiration to all who knew her. Her ‘sparkle’, interest in and caring of her family and friends will be deeply missed.

She was predeceased by her loving husband Bob (Reginald) Lyte who cherished her for 66 years; also predeceased and dear sister to Elsie, Mable, Reta, Jim and Jack.

Loving mother of Gary (Marianne), Ron (Linda), Jeanne (Mike), Cheryl (Lori) and Tim (Kathy). Cherished Nana of Bob (Casey), Megan (Phil), Michael (Samantha), Kristina, Brandon (Rhonda), Bill (Sabrina), JJ (Rob), Alison (Raimondo), Matthew, Katy (Ryan), Frank (Maria), Jacqueline (Heather) and the late Spencer. Great-Nana Lyte to Keaton, Frances, Grayson, Charlotte, Wesley, Louis, Austin, Jayci, Ryker, Faith, Bridgette, Riley, Danica, Alessandro, Gabriella, Sophia, Cooper and Ella. Fondly remembered by her nieces and nephews, relatives and many cherished friends (old and new).

Ethel was born and raised in MacTier, Ontario and spoke fondly of her early years in the church, singing, playing baseball and highland dancing. After completing a secretarial program followed by a job in Toronto, she returned to MacTier to marry Bob and raise five children. She especially loved her summers at the beach in MacTier with her children and grandchildren. She spent many hours in her garden, baking, knitting and enjoying nature. Ethel nurtured many lifelong and close friendships with whom she loved having tea, attending musical events and playing cards.

Through her love of learning and reading, Ethel was inspired to start up the MacTier Public Library, which lead her to secretarial, library and resource centre roles at the MacTier Public School for 17 years. She actively supported the community over the years through numerous organizations, some of which included Meals on Wheels, the MacTier Lions Club and the MacTier Railroad Heritage Society. Ethel was also a lifelong member of the United Church and was awarded the Charter of Membership in the UCW (United Church Women) for her 60 plus years of service.

A visitation was held on Tuesday, August 26th, 2025, at Adams Funeral Home (445 St. Vincent Street, Barrie) beginning at 11am followed by a Memorial service at 1pm in the Adams Funeral Home chapel. A reception took place following the service in the Adams Funeral Home reception lounge.

Cremation has taken place and family interment will follow at the MacTier United Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial donations to Royal Victoria Hospital, Southlake Regional Health Centre or to a charity of your choice would be appreciated.

The family wishes to send a special thank you to the staff of Amica Little Lake in Barrie, Royal Victoria Hospital and Southlake Regional Hospital. Their caring and support for mom will always be remembered.