Sharon Patricia Thompson Mackay Gelling

GELLING, Sharon Patricia Thompson MacKay

Passed peacefully at the age of 81 surrounded by her children at her home on August 9, 2023.  She passed with dignity and grace, as she wanted. This is how she lived her life.

Sharon joins her devoted husband of 55 years, Barry Michael Gelling who we lost on April 1, 2020. She is survived by her daughter Sheila (Mike Bradley) and their sons Jack and Tyler of Richmond, BC, daughter Josie and her son Sebastien of Port Moody, BC, and son Craig and his children Julian and Serena of Toronto, ON, and her sister Heather (Doug Dowsley) of Victoria, BC. Predeceased by her parents John Thompson, Doris Urwin Thompson MacKay, John MacKay, Margaret Laidler Scott MacKay, her brothers Nick Scott and Gordon MacKay.

Sharon was born in Regina, SK, on Dec 9,1941, and moved to Victoria as a small child. She graduated from Mt. Douglas Secondary (1959), completed her undergraduate degree at Vic College (1963), then her Master of Social Work at UBC (1965).

Sharon met the love of her life, Barry, on a blind date in college. They were married on June 20,1964, and raised their family in Victoria. Their passion for travel took them all over the world, but their favourite getaway was their cottage at Fork Lake where they enjoyed many summers. Sharon loved hosting and being surrounded by family and friends, especially her grandchildren. She was so proud of each and every one of them.

She was a child survivor of polio at 12 years old which left its effects physically but did not deter her determination in everything she undertook. Sharon was passionate about her career in social work. She devoted herself to helping and encouraging others. She was able to use her knowledge and experience to better our community through her endless volunteer work.

Sharon touched and inspired everyone she met. She was fearless and courageous. She listened, she cared, with kindness and patience. Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and dear friend to so many.

Grateful thanks to Dr. Luckhurst, Dr. Watson, SureWork Home Care and their wonderful care givers.

Please join us in celebrating both Sharon and Barry on Friday, October 20, 1:30pm - 4:30pm at The University Club of Victoria, 3800 Finnerty Rd.

Donations in Sharon’s honour may be made to Ronald McDonald and condolences made in the “Share a memory” space on this page.