Elizabeth Morrow (née Robinson)

Elizabeth “Liz” Morrow (nee Robinson)

After a full and meaningful life, Elizabeth died peacefully with family by her side on February 12, 2026. Pre-deceased by her beloved husband, Herbert in 2010, she was the loving mother of Heather (Peter), David (Lise), Janet (E.A.), Ruth (Mishka), and Nancy (Larry). Adored “Hannah” and “Nana” of Margaret (Owen), Simon (Joanna), Jeffrey (Michelle), Eric (Shannon), Rebecca (Adam), Samuel (Chloe), Charles (Annie). Great grandmother to Noah and Chloe, Mackenzie and Anna, Abbi and Jude. Cherished sister of Charlie Robinson (late Louise) and Kathi Robinson-Dassel (Bob). Special cousin of Glenda (Arthur). Dear sister-in-law of Anne (late Jim), Jean (Mike), and Ross. Proud cousin and aunt to many nieces and nephews by blood and by choice. Devoted friend of many who predeceased her as well as steadfast friends who will miss her deeply.

Born in Toronto, Elizabeth was raised in Barrie, first above the Robinson Hardware store owned by her grandfather, and later a few blocks away. She frequently recounted cherished memories of her time at Barrie Collegiate, where she met Herb in the band, and deepened her life-long (and multi-generational) friendship with her best friend, Dona. While she never moved back, she remained deeply proud of her Barrie roots.

After marrying Herb in 1951, they began their lifelong habit of moving, and collecting dear friends along the way. They lived in Hamilton, Calgary, Cranbrook, Red Deer, and Regina, before settling in Ottawa. In every city, they formed strong connections through the Anglican Church and with their neighbours; friendships that endured long after each move.

Elizabeth worked at the Davis Agency in Ottawa for many years, bringing home stories of the comings and goings of people to the store and the mall, which was perfect for her extroverted nature. She was a member of the Red Hat Society, the Nepean Songsters, and is remembered for her love of picking strawberries and making jam. She loved an Ontario fruit stand!

A devoted member of St John the Divine, and later, Julian of Norwich, the Anglican Church was a strong influence in Elizabeth’s life. She was an active choir, pastoral care team, and advisory board member, and Cursillo participant. For many years she was a dedicated volunteer (and frequent customer) of the Nearly New Shop.

In 2017, Elizabeth moved to Stirling Park where she was among its first residents. She participated in outings and activities; spearheaded the garden club; served on the food committee, and anything else they would let her join! She thrived at Stirling Park and we are grateful for the love, care, and experience of community she received there.

Elizabeth welcomed many into her home and her life, embodying true Christian love through comforting the sick, feeding the poor, welcoming strangers, and standing for justice. With members of St. John the Divine, Elizabeth and Herb supported refugee families coming to Canada, including the Lu family, who became lifelong friends. She also helped found Martha’s House, the first women’s-only shelter in Ottawa, now part of Cornerstone Housing for Women. Her compassion and generosity shaped her family and touched many more lives than we will ever know.

We sincerely thank the many family and friends who supported Elizabeth and her family throughout her illness. She treasured every visit and phone call, even as her Alzheimer’s progressed. The staff at Stirling Park showed exceptional compassion and care, especially in the past 18 months.

Family and friends will be welcomed to share their memories of Elizabeth at Tubman Funeral Homes, Garden Chapel on Friday, April 24 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm. A Celebration of Life will be held at Julian of Norwich, Anglican Church on Saturday, April 25 at 11am. We encourage those attending to wear bright colours!

While Elizabeth loved flowers, the family kindly suggests making a donation instead to the Dementia Society of Ottawa and Renfrew County or Alongside Hope. Plant a flower in your garden to remember Elizabeth this summer; and smile the next time you eat a strawberry.

Matthew 25:40 “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”