Henry George Legge

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Henry George Oswald Legge on May 29, 2025, at Hospice Simcoe in Barrie, at the age of 80. He departed peacefully with his beloved wife of 51 years, Lorraine, by his side.

Henry was born on January 13, 1945, in Cornerbrook, Newfoundland to Harvey and Selina (nee Somerton) Legge. Though he possessed a healthy catalogue of "Newfie" jokes, he was proud of where he came from and was thrilled to share its beauty and charm with his sons during his last trip there in 2013. Henry lived a life marked by devotion to his family and a profound commitment to serving others. He married his cherished wife, Lorraine, on February 16, 1974, and together they built a loving home and family.

Henry was a proud and dedicated father to his three sons: Stephen (Robin), David (Tanya), and John-Michael (Michelle). He extended that same pride and affection to his daughters-in-law, whom he embraced as his own. A doting grandfather, Henry treasured his five grandchildren: Lauren, Dylan, Grayson, Madeline, and Alex. Although he didn’t keep an online platform, he stayed wonderfully up to date with his extended family, including his four nephews and their families from his sister, and his three nephews and a niece and their families through his wife’s frequent calls with her brothers, Stan (Carol) and Bill Brownlee. He had a unique way of showing his immense pride in each of his children and grandchildren. Whether it was enthusiastically sharing their accomplishments with family and friends, proudly announcing their milestones and achievements at his Rotary Club meetings, subtly pulling strings to offer a helping hand, generously contributing resources, sitting in a cold arena watching hockey, on hot bleachers watching baseball, or patiently sitting through a four-hour show every year in an uncomfortable seat (and only complaining a little bit afterwards), his love and support were ever-present and deeply felt.

Henry's dedication to service was evident throughout his life. His career in education began after Teachers College in 1965. While working, he diligently pursued further education as a part-time student during evenings and weekends, as many teachers did at the time, earning a BA (Honours) in Psychology. As a passionate teacher and later an administrator, he profoundly influenced the lives of countless students and staff members throughout his career in both the Toronto and Simcoe County Boards of Education. He took a meaningful pause from his educational career when he and Lorraine became Salvation Army ministers, a spiritual path they shared with his sister Betty-Ann (and her husband Doug Lewis), and his parents, Harvey and Selina, who were ministers before them. Even after returning to and eventually retiring from teaching, Henry's desire to help others continued. He and Lorraine co-founded a home care business, extending their compassion and support to those in need.

Henry was also always very involved in his community. He was an active member and held various positions in organizations such as the Barrie Rotary Club, Barrie-Huronia Probus, Barrie BNI, and the Trillium Miata Club, among others, contributing his time and energy to causes and fellowship he valued.

Beyond his professional and community roles, Henry had a profound passion for music, particularly "Brass Banding." His talent and enthusiasm led him to be an active member of numerous musical groups throughout his life, including the prestigious Canadian Staff Band, the Huronia Symphony Orchestra, the Orillia Silver Band, the Georgian Bay Concert Band, and various Salvation Army Corps and Heritage Brass Bands. His music brought joy to himself and to countless others.

A self-described "serial hobbyist," Henry approached life with curiosity and a desire to understand how things worked. His interests were vast and varied, from attempting to restore classic cars and meticulously collecting stamps, to building model train sets, exploring photography, and amassing a cherished collection of vinyl records. He found joy in the details and in keeping things organized. Furthermore, Henry was an avid walker. He and his walking buddies clocked countless kilometers, from daily walks along the Barrie waterfront to the remarkable achievement of becoming Bruce Trail "End to Enders."

Henry's legacy is one of unwavering family love, quiet strength, dedicated service, active community involvement, a passion for music and myriad hobbies, a love for the outdoors, pride in his roots, and enduring support for his entire family. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.

The family wishes to thank Dr. J.J. Scheeres, Dr. Jessica Singh and all of the amazing staff and volunteers of Gilda’s Club and Hospice Simcoe for all of their support and comfort on this difficult journey. Henry had many visitors in his final weeks and days, and we were very touched by the outpouring of love and support from everyone. Thank you to everyone who visited or sent messages, these were appreciated by all.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, June 14, 2025 starting with visitation at 1:00 p.m. at The Barrie Salvation Army Citadel, 151 Lillian Crescent, Barrie, Ontario with service at 2:00 p.m. with refreshments following at 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Gilda’s Club, Hospice Simcoe & The Salvation Army Barrie Citadel.

LIVESTREAM LINK