Obituary of Heilla Gordon

It is with great sadness we share the news of Heillie’s passing at the John M Parrott Centre, Napanee on Pentecost Sunday, June 7, 2025 at the age of 70 years. Heillie was predeceased by her parents Aggie Swart (Van der Linde) and Hans Swart of Johannesburg. Heillie’s sister, Elsabé Brown, continues to reside in Roodepoort, South Africa.
 

Heillie was the beloved wife of James (Jim) Gordon. She is the devoted mother of James (Jasmine) and Hester (Erik Lindquist) and a baby girl who died at birth, grandmother of Penny, Wesley, Jack, Timothy, Teddy, Heillie, Mary and Elsabé and the great grandmother of a baby due in September.

Many were impacted by years of Heillie’s cheerful service at the University of Pretoria, John Ross College in Richard’s Bay and the Teachers College at eSikhawini, South Africa. Many remember the art exhibitions that Heillie had and still treasure her paintings hanging in their homes. She was the President of the Northern Ontario Arts Association (from Thunder Bay to North Bay) and member of many choirs. She was an inspiration in many churches where she served and had a gift to inspire others to sing. Eric Gagnon, organist wrote, “Not only was Heillie brilliant with the Bible but also adept at inspiring me to write more than one song!” Heillie inspired many as the Pastoral Care Coordinator at Helen Henderson Care centre. She served as encouragement at H&R Block as people were warring with taxes.
 

She earned a B.A. degree in African Languages and Linguistics, a Teacher’s Certificate, a second degree in computer programming “just for fun” at Algoma University and had almost completed her Masters degree in computer programming when Lewy Body dementia overtook her.
 

According to her beloved granddaughters (aged 6, 4 and 3) Heillie is now engaged in the most important party ever, with Jesus.

In keeping with Heillie’s wishes cremation has taken place. A celebration of her life will be held online. Donations to Parkway Church in Bath (giveparkway@gmail.com) or Parkinson’s Society would be appreciated by the family in lieu of flowers.

Please share your memories and condolences to the family.