Lydia Elaine Charles was born 90 years ago on December 10, 1927 in Georgetown, Guyana. She passed away in the comfort of her home in Brampton, Ontario surrounded by her family on November 10, 2018.
She is survived by her beloved children: Laura Blackman (Dennis Blackman), Jacqueline Franklin (Bromley Franklin), Wendy Blackman, (Rawle Blackman), Keith Charles; her seven grandchildren: Onika Blackman-Llyod, Merika Blackman, Melanie Blackman, Nicole Franklin, Carl Blackman, Sydney Charles, Keiauna Charles; her six great grandchildren: Raheem Wilson, Samaya El Amin, Kane Blackman-Lloyd, Moon Blackman-Bowen, Malik El Amin, Amani Blackman; and her siblings: Freddy Crawford, Shirley Carrega, Avril Crawford, Roy Crawford. She is predeceased by her siblings: Robert Crawford, Sydney Crawford and Jimmy Crawford.
Best known by all as “Granny”, Lydia Elaine was a kind-hearted, positive woman who always wore a smile. She had a way of making each person she connected with feel extra special, especially her grandchildren who she resided with and helped raise. Lydia Elaine was a dedicated mother, grandmother and friend who loved to cook, sew, crochet and swim. She was famous for ensuring that all of the family’s favorites were always on the menu, also known for her sweet tooth and zest for life.
She would awaken the home with the sound of her beautiful voice singing her favorite church hymns, as a devoted member of the Anglican Church choir. Lydia Elaine worked in Hospitality Management and was recognized for her amazing work efforts at the Pegasus Hotel in Guyana and the Sheridan Centre in Toronto Ontario. She was the glue that brought everyone together and above all she was a compassionate woman who changed the life of many. The family would like to thank each and every person who was helpful in caring for her in her later years. Their efforts and kindness are greatly appreciated.
A Celebration of life for Lydia Elaine Charles will be held in St. Joseph of Nazareth Anglican Church (290 Balmoral Drive Brampton Ontario L6T 1V6) on Friday November 16th 2018 at 2:00pm.
The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to The Youth Diversion Program, which helps support youth at risk in overcoming life’s challenges. To donate click this link.