We created a GatheringUs memorial to celebrate the life of Jill Anne Eagleson. Collecting your stories and memories here will offer us great comfort. Thank you for contributing to this lasting memorial.
OBITUARY
Jill, loving mother of her 11-year old son Kayden, passed away peacefully at Bridgepoint Health hospice six weeks after learning she had pancreatic cancer. Her brother Allen, his wife Yasmine Brander, and Jill's closest friend Gillian Grant were her constant caregivers, and dear friend Lisa Marcuzzi her advisor, during her brief illness.
Jill attended North Toronto Collegiate, University of Toronto (B.A.) and Queen's University... see more
Jill, loving mother of her 11-year old son Kayden, passed away peacefully at Bridgepoint Health hospice six weeks after learning she had pancreatic cancer. Her brother Allen, his wife Yasmine Brander, and Jill's closest friend Gillian Grant were her constant caregivers, and dear friend Lisa Marcuzzi her advisor, during her brief illness.
Jill attended North Toronto Collegiate, University of Toronto (B.A.) and Queen's University (LL.B.). She practiced law with Holden Murdoch for four years and then joined the insurance industry. She became an expert in liability insurance for architects and engineers and joined her professional family at DIALOG design in 2019. It was a perfect working situation and she enjoyed every day with her colleagues until her illness.
Jill is survived by her son Kayden who was the light and love of her life, by her parents Nancy and Alan Eagleson of Collingwood, her brother Allen and his wife Yasmine, and by their children Austen (Elizabeth Brennan) and Georgina, and Kayden’s nanny Divina.
Jill will be dearly remembered by her aunts Margaret Hooey and Carol Ruse (Jim), her cousins, colleagues at DIALOG and the Toronto Cricket Club, Team In Training and other running friends, the FCASA Group families, all of Kayden’s friends, parents and teachers and her many business and social friends everywhere.
Jill was a superb athlete. She and Gillian Grant were winners of the Toronto High School Championships in women's doubles and three years later they won the OAAU Tennis Championships for the University of Toronto.
Jill was also an excellent skier and was a member of the Concordia University Ski Team in her first year.
The sport love of her life was running. She ran in over 30 marathons around the world, including Boston, New York, London, Paris and Berlin. She always finished in the top 5 percent of her age cohort. Her favourite runs, however, were those with Kayden.
On Jill's behalf we thank all members of the staff at Toronto Western Hospital, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Bridgepoint Hospice for the care and attention they gave her and who managed to get her the most important 24 hours at home with Kayden. Thanks to Drs. Lewis, O’Kane, O’Connor, Gim, Howe, Shin, Chen, Cummings, Caldeira; Carolyn, Claudia, Lorna, Mark, Calvin, Kevin, Emily, Lisa, Ruth, and the others who gave their all to provide relief and comfort to Jill.
Also thanks to the many contributors to the meal train for Jill over the past weeks, as well as Dr. Rob Gordon, Paul Godfrey and Shauna Seabrook, for their advocacy and support.
Cremation has taken place and the burial service will be family only due to COVID. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Emmanuel's Wish or the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation.
Princess Margaret - https://pmhf3.akaraisin.com/Donation/Event/DonationInfo.aspx?seid=12692&mid=50
I am utterly heartbroken to learn of Jill's passing. It's unbelievable that someone so vibrant - so full of life - was taken so quickly. My sincerest condolences to all who loved her, most especially her adored son, Kayden. When I first met in person at... moreI am utterly heartbroken to learn of Jill's passing. It's unbelievable that someone so vibrant - so full of life - was taken so quickly. My sincerest condolences to all who loved her, most especially her adored son, Kayden. When I first met in person at a Team in Training event in 2011, it quickly became obvious how very much she loved him. I particularly enjoyed reading Facebook posts about their travel adventures together over the years. I hope the memories of those adventures bring him a little comfort at this difficult time. She was a wonderful, loving person, who will be greatly missed by many. less
I knew Jill from our days at the TLTC and also in Collingwood, both on and off the hills. Bright, determined, fun, impish and a loyal friend are words that come to mind when I think of Jill. Our paths crossed from time to time when we were older, and I... moreI knew Jill from our days at the TLTC and also in Collingwood, both on and off the hills. Bright, determined, fun, impish and a loyal friend are words that come to mind when I think of Jill. Our paths crossed from time to time when we were older, and I will always remember her plucky spirit.
I am so so sorry for this tremendous loss to the Eagleson family, and am sending peace & strength to you all. less
For me, Jill was my rock. As a DIALOG'r, she was in a position to be the front line for so many tough issues. Everytime we chatted on the phone, I wanted to hear about life outside of work with family, friends, activities, etc. I will miss her smile... moreFor me, Jill was my rock. As a DIALOG'r, she was in a position to be the front line for so many tough issues. Everytime we chatted on the phone, I wanted to hear about life outside of work with family, friends, activities, etc. I will miss her smile and quirky sense humor. Her joy talking about Kayden made me go home and hug my kids a little more. I'll always miss you Jill! less
Jill was a great person who will be missed by her friends and family. It was great to see her at golf tournaments and lunches and she was always interested and engaged. The pride and joy that she took in Kayden was so evident. Please accept our... moreJill was a great person who will be missed by her friends and family. It was great to see her at golf tournaments and lunches and she was always interested and engaged. The pride and joy that she took in Kayden was so evident. Please accept our condolences on this shocking loss. Richard, Lisa and Daniel Payne, Toronto less
Brokenhearted....Jill was the first person from Team in Training that we clicked with, up at the Mayor's Marathon in Alaska, back in....2005 (?). Thoughout the years and our further involvement in TNT Jill was one of the Fabulous T.O. Crew that we looked... moreBrokenhearted....Jill was the first person from Team in Training that we clicked with, up at the Mayor's Marathon in Alaska, back in....2005 (?). Thoughout the years and our further involvement in TNT Jill was one of the Fabulous T.O. Crew that we looked for (and forward to) at events, knowing that her being there would guarantee a great experience before, during and after the race (a raucous night at a San Diego piano bar comes to mind...)...she went full-on in everything she did. My deepest condolences go out to those who were much closer to her, but all of us can feel that the world is a bit of a lesser place without Jill in it... less
It was with sadness that we learned of Jill's passing. We remember a cute, delightful little girl years ago at Georgian Peaks. To Nancy and Al, and family, please accept our heartfelt condolences. Sincerely, John, Ruth(McIntyre),Betsy and Traver Gammell
Jill’s extraordinary example and shining spirit will surely live on in all who loved her so very, very much. With our condolences across the many years gone by. Rest In Peace 🙏
I met Jill in the summer of 1976 when our family had the good fortune to move to a house a few doors down from the Eaglesons. I was a year older than Jill but that didn’t seem to matter, soon we became fast friends.
We spent summers playing Marco... moreI met Jill in the summer of 1976 when our family had the good fortune to move to a house a few doors down from the Eaglesons. I was a year older than Jill but that didn’t seem to matter, soon we became fast friends.
We spent summers playing Marco Polo in Jill’s pool or hanging out at the TLTC, playing tennis when we could, or cards in the snack bar while we waited for our next court. (There was a group of us that met there each day and boy did we have fun.) When we weren’t at the TLTC, you might find the group of us on the Branksome lower field playing baseball games for hours. Jill’s athletic ability was already on full display on both the tennis court and the baseball diamond.
In the summer of 1977, Jill, Allen, my brother and myself traveled down to Maryland to attend the Don Budge tennis camp. The ride down was full of laughs – something about a dancing banana :) After camp our parents picked us up and we took Jill and Allen with us to tour Washington, DC, - photo below of Jill, Allen, my Mom and myself at the Smithsonian.
In the winter we would see Jill and Allen up in Collingwood. Though Jill and Allen skied at another club we would see them after skiing. They would often be part of the annual New Year’s Eve bash that would start at our place for the “kids” while the parents started their party at the cabin across the road. (Picture below shows Jill on New Year’s Eve 1980.)
My memories of Jill are of laughter, fun and her great smile. She was a great, great friend. The Eaglesons were wonderful to our family. Hanging out with Jill and Allen are some of my best memories of living on Rosedale Road.
Though we grew apart over the years, we kept in touch on Facebook. I loved seeing the photos of all of Jill’s travels, her running successes, but most of all I loved seeing the posts about Kayden. You could see what a great Mom she was and how much fun the two of them had.
When I got the call in mid September from a mutual friend telling me that Jill was sick, it hit me hard. Such a bright light dimmed way too soon. I send sincere condolences from Jim, Margot and myself to Mr. and Mrs. Eagleson, Allen and his family, and of course, Kayden. I will truly miss my childhood friend. less
My hope is the Eagleson Family and all Jill's friends find peace and solace. My gratitude is to you for sharing her with us at Dialog, where we had the pleasure of seeing her masterful mind, enthusiasm and professionalism at work. We also got to see... moreMy hope is the Eagleson Family and all Jill's friends find peace and solace. My gratitude is to you for sharing her with us at Dialog, where we had the pleasure of seeing her masterful mind, enthusiasm and professionalism at work. We also got to see her warmth and joy each and everyday. I am honoured that she gave me the gift of her friendship. less
Sending my condolences to all the Eagleson family upon hearing this terribly sad news today. Jill was an outstanding athlete, Mom, daughter and sister to you all and her optimism and joy for life was infectious. She will be very missed. My prayers go out... moreSending my condolences to all the Eagleson family upon hearing this terribly sad news today. Jill was an outstanding athlete, Mom, daughter and sister to you all and her optimism and joy for life was infectious. She will be very missed. My prayers go out to you all. less
I met Jill when she first joined the Cricket Club - on a tennis court. We were paired up to play a Monday night evening league match, on a lovely night at Rosedale Park. We shared laughs, comradery and a win. We began to play a regular Sat afternoon game... moreI met Jill when she first joined the Cricket Club - on a tennis court. We were paired up to play a Monday night evening league match, on a lovely night at Rosedale Park. We shared laughs, comradery and a win. We began to play a regular Sat afternoon game not long after meeting which continued until the Club closed due to COVID in March 2020. Sometimes it was singles (always loved hearing Jill say "oh c'mon" when I managed to hit an obscure winner) but most often doubles with our dear friend Carolyn and a host of others depending on who was available. The tennis was always fun & spirited followed by an apres tennis where we spent hours talking about many, many different things taking place in our lives. The picture below is from one of our last tennis hits before COVID lockdown. Shortly after the Australian Open.
I admired Jill as a mother, person and a friend. I will truly miss her. My heartfelt condolences to the entire Eagleson family. You are all in my thoughts. less
Jill spent 23 years of her life working with a group of people who became her work family. Jill touched the hearts of every person who was blessed to meet her and was part of her journey; her work family, broker partners, insureds who she tirelessly... moreJill spent 23 years of her life working with a group of people who became her work family. Jill touched the hearts of every person who was blessed to meet her and was part of her journey; her work family, broker partners, insureds who she tirelessly defended and even plaintiff council who were nervous when she entered the room. She was tiny but mighty with a huge passion for everything she did. Jill’s accomplishments were too many to list but the one that made her the most proud and happy was being a mother to beautiful Kayden. He completed her. The world will miss Jill but we are so lucky to have had her touch our lives even if it was for only a short time. Her spirit continues to live in all of us. Love you so less
We met Jill in South Africa when we were both adopting our sons. Jill was one of the first people to meet Isaac and we spent over a week together while we bonded with our boys. A special connection was instantly formed and a wonderful friendship... moreWe met Jill in South Africa when we were both adopting our sons. Jill was one of the first people to meet Isaac and we spent over a week together while we bonded with our boys. A special connection was instantly formed and a wonderful friendship developed over the next 11 years. Jill always welcomed us into her home with open arms and a warm smile during our frequent trips to Toronto. Her love and dedication to Kayden was wonderful to watch.
We send our love and condolences to Jill's family and friends. We will miss her greatly. less
I was part of Jill's TLTC family as a teenager. I will always remember her slightly mischievous smile, and her quiet, but fierce independence. Am thinking of her family, who I still remember with great fondness.
I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear of Jill's illness and passing. I have so many wonderful memories of her during the years we trained and ran races together with Team in Training. Jill was an amazing athlete and we spent many hours telling... moreI was shocked and deeply saddened to hear of Jill's illness and passing. I have so many wonderful memories of her during the years we trained and ran races together with Team in Training. Jill was an amazing athlete and we spent many hours telling stories and sharing laughs during our runs together. We had some epic experiences with TNT and I could always count on Jill to get me over that next hill. My heart goes out to her family and especially to her son, Kayden, who I know, was her greatest joy in life. With love and gratitude for the time we spent together - Joanna less
So very saddened to hear of Jill's passing. Kayden was her heart. Kayden, you have a devoted angel watching over you. Alan, Nancy and Allen, much love to all of you, my heart breaks for you and your family. As Jill's neighbour for 17 yrs we had countless... moreSo very saddened to hear of Jill's passing. Kayden was her heart. Kayden, you have a devoted angel watching over you. Alan, Nancy and Allen, much love to all of you, my heart breaks for you and your family. As Jill's neighbour for 17 yrs we had countless sidewalk, front stoop or porch chats, sometimes with wine. Our annual Edith Xmas party, Jill was always first to RSVP, laughing that she would bring wine and gladly donate towards any food. Often saying, "you don't want me cooking anything!" Even though we always had "Jill wine" on hand she never failed to show up with a bottle of her favourite white, "just in case". Her laugh, huge smile and big personality will be missed. ❤️ less
Jill was a dear friend of my mother's and always made time to have meaningful conversation with me when I would visit at the office. She inspired me to get into running and helped me go from a 2k runner to a marathon runner. She was always one of my... moreJill was a dear friend of my mother's and always made time to have meaningful conversation with me when I would visit at the office. She inspired me to get into running and helped me go from a 2k runner to a marathon runner. She was always one of my biggest cheerleaders, celebrating the big moments in my life and the lives of my family members. Jill had such a beautiful heart and radiated positivity and passion into every room she entered. I will miss her tight hugs and am so glad one was captured between her and I on my wedding day (photo below). Seeing Jill with Kayden was proof of the greatest love in the world. She will be dearly missed. Her family, friends, and Kayden are in my heart during this impossible time. less
Alison StuckeySo very saddened to hear of Jill's passing. Kayden was her heart. Kayden, you have a devoted angel watching over you. Alan, Nancy and Allen, much love to all of you, my heart breaks for you and your family. As Jill's neighbour for 17 yrs we had countless... moreSo very saddened to hear of Jill's passing. Kayden was her heart. Kayden, you have a devoted angel watching over you. Alan, Nancy and Allen, much love to all of you, my heart breaks for you and your family. As Jill's neighbour for 17 yrs we had countless sidewalk, front stoop or porch chats, sometimes with wine. Our annual Edith Xmas party, Jill was always first to RSVP, laughing that she would bring wine and gladly donate towards any food. Often saying, "you don't want me cooking anything!" Even though we always had "Jill wine" on hand she never failed to show up with a bottle of her favourite white, "just in case". Her laugh, huge smile and big personality will be missed. ❤️ less
I met Jill when she first started working at DPIC. I was one of the external counsel that DPIC used in the defence of claims against architects and engineers. Jill and I drove all over southern Ontario to meet insureds at their places of business. We... moreI met Jill when she first started working at DPIC. I was one of the external counsel that DPIC used in the defence of claims against architects and engineers. Jill and I drove all over southern Ontario to meet insureds at their places of business. We had lots of laughs and many discussions about life during those car rides. I knew how important running was to her and the multitude of other sports she enjoyed. I also knew she valued her family and friends above all else. She embraced life, always had a smile on her face and was quick to share a laugh. I am so sorry for this loss to the Eagleson family. less
You can always tell so much about someone by their impact on others. It is clear that Jill was a wonderful daughter, sister, friend, colleague and of course mother!
We are so very sorry for the physical loss that the Eagleson Family, Kaden and her many... moreYou can always tell so much about someone by their impact on others. It is clear that Jill was a wonderful daughter, sister, friend, colleague and of course mother!
We are so very sorry for the physical loss that the Eagleson Family, Kaden and her many friends are experiencing.
All our love,
Mark, Michele and Nicole less
This is the first picture I took of Jill. It was taken a few months after we met - after the 100's of emails and texts exchanged, after the many Kayden and Buddy Ben weekly playdates, and after the excitement, the laughter, and pure joy with the right... moreThis is the first picture I took of Jill. It was taken a few months after we met - after the 100's of emails and texts exchanged, after the many Kayden and Buddy Ben weekly playdates, and after the excitement, the laughter, and pure joy with the right amount of fear as we settled into motherhood, and despite the 100's of pictures of our boys, I took a picture of my friend Jill. Her limitless support, strength, humour, empathy, and vulnerability made me a better person.
We met via email just a few days after she received her adoption referral. My son's adoption referral was received about the week before. It was the beginning of a wonderful, cherished friendship. I cannot think of a better person to have begun, and shared, my parenting journey with. Our boys, who met before we did, brought us together. Our love for our boys and love of life made it so easy to be friends. less
My deepest condolences to Jill’s family. I met Jill on the tennis courts and we played together for many years at The Valley and Moore Park tennis club. I went to Nashville with her to run a half marathon (she did the full one!). Jill always had a... moreMy deepest condolences to Jill’s family. I met Jill on the tennis courts and we played together for many years at The Valley and Moore Park tennis club. I went to Nashville with her to run a half marathon (she did the full one!). Jill always had a smile to offer along with a very competitive spirit. I will always remember her. less
I was so fortunate to have met Jill at DIALOG. I felt from the start she was a kindred spirit! I'll forever be grateful for the laughs in often times stressful situations; witnessing her "straight shooter" approach; and, always seeing her bring... moreI was so fortunate to have met Jill at DIALOG. I felt from the start she was a kindred spirit! I'll forever be grateful for the laughs in often times stressful situations; witnessing her "straight shooter" approach; and, always seeing her bring people together. She was a remarkable person who made an incredible impact on me...and from reading all of these comments (as well as those of her colleagues at DIALOG), on pretty much everyone she touched. Farewell, my friend. less
I’ve know Jill most of my life..through our parents initially and then school, various sports, and cottaging with cousin Gill...I will always remember a fun spirited and intensely competitive athlete and a most dedicated mom. I will treasure those... moreI’ve know Jill most of my life..through our parents initially and then school, various sports, and cottaging with cousin Gill...I will always remember a fun spirited and intensely competitive athlete and a most dedicated mom. I will treasure those times at the cottage... swims, laughs and Chardonnay... With much love, Jeannie less
I met Jill in 1997 when I started working at Design Professional and we worked together for 20+ years. Our relationship quickly transitioned from colleagues to friends. How could it not? Jill's warmth, spunk, kindness and her rather sarcastic humour... moreI met Jill in 1997 when I started working at Design Professional and we worked together for 20+ years. Our relationship quickly transitioned from colleagues to friends. How could it not? Jill's warmth, spunk, kindness and her rather sarcastic humour were so compelling, her laugh infectious and her energy boundless. Standout memories - karaoke, autumn birthday celebrations, Jill on the dance floor, Santa Claus parades, daily 8:00 o'clock coffee breaks, Las Vegas...and naturally Chardonnay. It was an absolute joy watching Jill with Kayden. I remember saying very early on that Kayden was a lucky little boy to have her as his Mommy. Jill's reply was "I am the lucky one". I am exceedingly grateful for the wonderful role model she was for my four girls. They each learned so much from her and benefitted from her wisdom and generosity. She will always hold a special place in my heart. My deepest sympathies to her family.
Kim xo less
I have so many wonderful memories and pictures with Jill. So many trips, dinners and celebrations...all with so much laughter! I met Jill 16 years ago at a Team In Training race in Barbados...drinking and singing Karaoke at 2am! We thought we... moreI have so many wonderful memories and pictures with Jill. So many trips, dinners and celebrations...all with so much laughter! I met Jill 16 years ago at a Team In Training race in Barbados...drinking and singing Karaoke at 2am! We thought we sounded so good!! lol That was the start of such a great friendship. One that took us on so many trips, races and adventures. Week-end getaways to Palm Springs, Banff, and of course, Chicago...many times...one of Jill's favorites! TNT took us to Alaska, Hawaii, Barbados, Nashville, San Fran, San Diego and more. There was such an amazing group of people that continued the running journey...but no-one more than Jill. Running definitely was her #1 passion...until Kayden :) I remember Jill's first race after Kayden came home...we went to Chicago!! Jill ran and I brought K to the finish line to greet his Mommy. I've attached a picture of them at the finish line...pure love! Jill was such an incredible Mom! He was her world and I just loved hearing stories of how his life was developing, how basketball was his passion, all the places they visited, and the love they shared. The best was when they came to Collingwood and we could have lunch and catch up in person! I always knew that no matter how busy we were with life...when we got together it was like time stood still...picking up right where we left off.
Ahhhh Love ya Jill...I'm sure going to miss you :(
Patsy xoxo less
I have so many memories of Jill. I first met Jill through Team in Training where we were roommates in San Francisco. This was only my 2nd marathon and I was so excited to speak with Jill on her training and how she ran sooooo fast. I was ready to take... moreI have so many memories of Jill. I first met Jill through Team in Training where we were roommates in San Francisco. This was only my 2nd marathon and I was so excited to speak with Jill on her training and how she ran sooooo fast. I was ready to take notes from my running hero! I soon realized Jills running was just about having fun and spending time with friends and if you train hard you can play harder and fast times will come naturally. After meeting her, I qualified for the Boston Marathon. I thank her for that. Jill and I went on over 15 trips together to run races – NYC, Boston, Virginia Beach, Chicago, Puerto Rico, Steamtown, Marine Corps, Trinidad, Tobago……the list goes on and on. The special race we did each and every year was the Streetsville Bread n Honey Race. We would run the 1km kids race with Kayden and Ryder, then run the 15km race and then off to the fair to hit some rides. I think this was Jills favourite race as she loved running with K. Jill was the best mom. Her face always lit up when she spoke of Kayden. She went from my running hero to my mom hero! I will miss her less
Jill was my mentor for my first Team in Training marathon in San Diego some 15 years ago. She became my running partner and friend. We ran almost every Saturday morning together up until a few months ago. We trained for so many races over the years. ... moreJill was my mentor for my first Team in Training marathon in San Diego some 15 years ago. She became my running partner and friend. We ran almost every Saturday morning together up until a few months ago. We trained for so many races over the years. Sometimes we trained for the same marathon, sometimes we just trained for each others race. As many of you know, Jill loved to talk on the runs. She would start talking at the beginning and we would talk until a 3 hour run was done. Her favorite subject was Kayden, his accomplishments in school, his sports activities, and every Christmas would recite his entire wish list. Jill was the most loving and devoted mother. I loved listening to her stories about her trips with Kayden, her work and just life in general. She was also a good listener and always gave sound advice and kept me off the therapists couch on more than one occasion. I am beyond heartbroken but know she will always be by my side on the road and forever in my heart. less
We never met Jill, but know from you guys talking about her what a special place she had and still has in your hearts. It sounds like she was an amazing lady and will be dearly missed.
Our deepest sympathies to you all for your tragic loss.
With love... moreWe never met Jill, but know from you guys talking about her what a special place she had and still has in your hearts. It sounds like she was an amazing lady and will be dearly missed.
Our deepest sympathies to you all for your tragic loss.
With love from Matthew & Elizabeth Lidbetter and children xxx less
Very sad to hear the news of Jill's passing. Her passion for life was unmatched.
A few memories to share:
I was out for a run one time and developed a cramp in my leg. I happened to be a block away from Jill & Garth's. I knocked on the door... moreVery sad to hear the news of Jill's passing. Her passion for life was unmatched.
A few memories to share:
I was out for a run one time and developed a cramp in my leg. I happened to be a block away from Jill & Garth's. I knocked on the door and they welcomed a limping and sweaty me. After some good conversation and maybe even a beer, I was able to continue my run. Impromptu hospitality at its best.
About 10 years ago, I started playing tennis again. Jill had just joined the cricket and was kind enough to play with me and help develop my game. Work got busy tennis fell by the wayside for me. I picked it up again this summer and was looking forward to arranging a hit with Jill this winter.
A few years back, I saw Jill on the subway and we caught up over 5-6 stops. (most of our recent interactions were passing each other at the cricket - to or from a sport, often being dragged in opposite directions by our kids). She explained how Kayden had started at a new school, happier than ever and was meeting great friends. Jill's love for Kayden is as powerful as any mom I've seen. She was able to provide so much for him and I imagine so deeply saddened that she'll miss being there for his teenage years, early adulthood, and one day seeing him start a family of his own.
Jill was blessed with tremendous love from so many family and friends. She lived a great life and made a difference to many. Especially Kayden. less
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