With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Anne Pollock who lived a fulfilling and vibrant life over 89 years. Anne left us peacefully on January 16, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones who cherished her warmth, kindness and her amazing spirit.
Anne’s eternal love for family continues, carried on by her most loving and loved companion of over 40 years Richard (Dick) Wilbur, her 4 children Kim (Jennifer), Jeff (Monica), Carolyn (Stephen) and predeceased son Gary (Lori), her grandchildren Nick (Dalia), Jason (Eleanora), Charlotte (Paul), Rachel (Dra), Jessica (Scott), Christie (Steve) and Ryan and 6 (soon to be 7) great grandchildren, Dick’s son Ross Anthony (Debbie) and grandson Brendan (Amy) as well as an extended collection of treasured relatives and friends from every walk of life including those in the UK. And of course Belle, the family dog that kept her so happy (and busy!) these past years.
The family would like to especially thank Sue Gerrard (Scott) for her unwavering support of her ‘second’ mother.
Born in England, Anne immigrated to Canada in 1955. Her elegance and grace was the foundation for her spirit, compassion and friendliness. She was a true English lady, poised, compassionate and generous with time and resources. Whether it was always having a card for a special occasion, enjoying a wee nip of scotch, or singing Joy to World or a strange but unyielding need to enforce a minimum consumption of brussel sprouts at Christmas, Anne had an immeasurable impact on all of us.
Whether throwing or sweeping curling rocks, hitting solid drives up the middle at Hylands and Cedarhill golf courses or as part of Annie’s girls playing some pretty good cards, Anne was a glowing light in our lives. She always had a treat for the neighbour’s dog and time for a neighbourly chat. Her home was a gallery of proudly displayed photographs (not pictures!) of every family member. An avid gardener, Anne kept a classic English garden where she seemed to have every plant, shrub, tree, flower or other flora not currently held in Kew Gardens – all tied up as necessary with every saved and re-used scrap of string or twine around. She ran her own business, raised four kids by herself in an era where that was pretty challenging and always maintained her sense of humour, generosity and dignity.
Anne and Dick would like to thank the amazing neighbours they are surrounded by for many years of friendship and in particular the support and assistance they provided these past few weeks. Thank you as well to the doctors, nurses, PSWs and other support workers that worked so hard to ensure Anne’s final days were comfortable at home.
Anne will rest at Beechwood Cemetary. Visitation and a celebration of life will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Humane Society of Ottawa and/or Canadian Cancer Society in her honour.