With great sadness, the family of Earline Edwards (nee Semple) announce her peaceful passing in Owen Sound, on Tuesday July 22, 2025, at the age of 90. She is now reunited with her husbands, Robert Edwards who predeceased her in 2023, and John Fitzsimmons, in 1969. Loving mother of Karen Beach of Annan, Kim Boyd (Randy) of Flesherton, Kelly Moore (Randy) of Wiarton, Wayne Edwards (Brenda) of Markdale, Doug Edwards (Judy) of Chatsworth, and the late Kevin Fitzsimmons (2024). Proud Grandma of Jason Beach, Lindsay Benoit (JP), Ferris Boyd (Calvin Boyce), Kelsey Sampson (Ty), Melanie Boyd (Curtis Harrison), Mathew Moore (Becky), Jesse Moore (Autumn), Lacey McRae (Justin), Melissa Edwards (Brad), Miranda Bilotta (Peter), Jamie Edwards and Devin Edwards (Amy) as well as 18 great-grandchildren. Dear sister of Audrey Twining. Predeceased by her parents Earl and Pearl Semple (nee Miller), sister Olga Rae (Russell), and brothers Alex (Amy, Jean), Derry, and Verdun Semple. She will be fondly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, and friends in the community. 

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Earline was born on August 13, 1934, to Earl and Pearl Semple, and welcomed by her siblings Alex, Olga, and Audrey. Her early years were marked by loss—her mother passed away when she was just two—but even then, Earline’s strength and resilience began to show. As her family grew, so did her role within it, helping to raise her younger siblings with a steady hand and caring heart.

She loved attending Lily Oak School, fondly recalling walks along snowy roads, gripping telephone wires for balance. Though she had to leave school after grade 8 to help on the farm, Earline’s intelligence was unmistakable—reflected in her beautiful handwriting, quick math skills, and thoughtful way with words.

At 16, she began working as a housekeeper, and by 18, she married John Fitzsimmons. His work as a baker took their growing family to towns across Ontario—Bracebridge, Richmond Hill, Markdale, and Toronto. Along the way, they welcomed their four children: Karen, Kim, Kelly, and Kevin. In 1967, they bought Wilcox Bakery in Meaford. Just two years later, John passed away, leaving Earline to raise her four children on her own—a task she met with courage, humour, and love.

Eventually settling in Markdale, Earline built a home on Edith Avenue. In time, she found love again with Bob Edwards, and with their marriage came two more sons—Wayne and Doug. Earline and Bob enjoyed travelling together across Canada, to Cuba, Florida, and beyond, always making memories along the way.

Earline worked hard all her life—in the high school cafeteria, local stores, and for 14 years at Centre Grey Hospital. Even after retiring, she continued to give back, volunteering for 25 years with the Hospital Auxiliary. She was endlessly curious and creative, enjoying reading, crocheting, knitting, and crafts. She even mastered the computer with such ease that Kevin once joked buying her one was a mistake!

After many happy years on Edith Avenue, Earline and Bob moved to a retirement home in Owen Sound. She was predeceased by Bob in 2023, and by her beloved son Kevin in 2024.

Earline was strong, smart, independent, funny, and full of love. She cared deeply for her family and friends, and was cherished in return. She will be lovingly remembered and missed by Karen, Kim, Kelly, Wayne, Doug, and their families.

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Cremation has taken place and arrangements entrusted to the Garafraxa Hill Funeral Home, Chatsworth. A Celebration of Life will be held at the funeral home chapel on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, from 12:00 – 3:00pm.  A private family inurnment will follow at Markdale Cemetery. If desired, donations to  Brightshores Health System-Markdale would be appreciated by the family. Condolences may be expressed online at www.garafraxahillfuneral.com.