Leonard Ashley Bennett

Leonard Ashley Bennett lost his battle with Blood Cancer on September 4, 2023, at the age of 89, in Victoria, BC. He died peacefully, in his sleep. His memory will live on forever in our hearts. He lived his life with honesty, grace and steadfast support for all of those around him. In his later years, Ashley's motto was "Every Day is a Good Day" and by default, every person was capable of good. He was not naïve and knew that most people, like the proverbial glass, could be viewed at half full or half empty. He was an epic storyteller, often laughing at his own tales with those around him. He had a remarkable memory that could recall dates, names, and places with attention to even the most minute detail. He was fiercely independent and moved about Toronto with a knowledge and youthfulness that amazed many. While Canada was his home for more than 50 years he was Jamaican through and through, always keeping a pulse on the politics and happenings of his first and true home. Ashley was the glue that kept the broader Bennett/Walker family together, endlessly making calls and sending letters to maintain connections and relationships across this continent and beyond. Ashley was recently predeceased by his wife of 30 years, Megan. He immigrated to Canada in 1970 with his ex-wife, Norma (nee Gavin) and their children. He is survived by 8 of his siblings; 4 children: Beverly, Louis, Garfield, and Wayne; 10 grandchildren: Marika, Lakeisha, Shawniquewka, Ethan, Noah, Jauquin, Jackson, Harper, Lordan and Walker; and 4 great-grandchildren. Cremation took place at Earth's Option Cremation & Burial Services, Victoria, BC (778-440-8500). In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society.