Sheila Catherine (Grady) Doris

DORIS, Sheila Catherine (nee Grady)

Sheila passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, at Peterborough Regional Health Centre on June 6, 2026 at the age of 94. Sheila was predeceased by her devoted and loving husband, Jack Doris. Sheila was blessed with good health and happiness until the final week of her life.

Sheila leaves behind: her six daughters, Ann Farlow (Bruce), Mary Doris, Colleen Angevaare (Terry), Jacqueline Wells, Kelly O’Meara (John) and Liz Doris-Northey (Randy); her 15 grandchildren, Emily, Alison, Monica, Meghan, Michael, John, Paul, Mark, Krista, Adam, Emma, Hannah, Jack, Matthew and Mya; and her 17 great-grandchildren, Mae, Benjamin, Nora, Ashton, Vincent, Joseph, Luke, Brooke, Charlotte, Leo, Elizabeth, Reid, Annie, Della, Finn, Felix and Aussie. Sheila lives on through the many cherished memories held by her family.

Born on March 28, 1932, in Peterborough, Ontario, Sheila was the daughter of Rita and Victor Grady (deceased). She will be dearly missed by her siblings, James “Jimmy” Grady (Susan), Colleen Reid (Frank), Ann Grady and Bonnie Brousseau (Wayne). Sheila was predeceased by her siblings Patricia Conlin, Rita “Mickey” Belton (Ron) and Michael Grady.

Sheila, often referred to as The Matriarch, will be affectionately remembered by her vast extended family and numerous close friends.  

In 1950, Sheila met Jack on a blind date, and from the moment they stepped onto the dance floor at Club Aragon, it was clear they were meant for each other. They danced the night away and began a love story that would span a lifetime. For 72 years of marriage, they created a life rich in love, family, faith, friendships, laughter, perseverance and unwavering support for one another.

Sheila was sharp, witty, wise, independent and social. She lived life on her terms and refused to be overwhelmed by life’s obstacles. Raising six daughters with a husband deeply engaged in municipal politics would challenge many, but Sheila approached it as a natural part of life and a precious gift to be treasured. The Doris house was a meeting place, where the doors were always open and all friends were welcome. The conversations, fun and laughter, for those lucky enough to gather around Sheila’s kitchen table, are fondly remembered.

As a young woman, Sheila had trained as a Bell Telephone operator. Years later, when her youngest daughter entered high school, she returned to work as a part-time switchboard operator at the Peterborough Clinic. Sheila often joked that sitting behind the switchboard was “like riding a bike” - her Bell Canada training quickly coming back to her. She threw herself into the job with zeal, thoroughly enjoying the work and the people she met along the way.

Sheila loved spending time with her family and friends. Whether gathering for euchre games on a Friday night, playing in a golf tournament or curling bonspiel, or traveling to Florida for a vacation, making these indelible memories was a lasting joy. Another of Sheila’s great pleasures was the many large family gatherings that come with an extensive family. Holiday dinners, weddings and the Rita Grady Golf Tournament were momentous occasions to be revered, enjoyed and remembered. And let’s not forget the children. Sheila loved to see and talk about her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, always ensuring she was up-to-date with their lives and activities, and always bursting with pride.

Sheila was interested in politics and the world around her. She loved engaging in deep conversations about meaningful subjects and hearing what others had to say. She was open-minded and respectful of the views of others. She showed her compassion by volunteering for many years at Hospice Peterborough.

Sheila also loved sports and was an enthusiastic fan of her beloved Blue Jays, rarely missing the chance to cheer them on. Whether reading a book, working on a crossword or watching a baseball game, Sheila always found joy in life’s simple pleasures.

Sheila’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Jackson Creek Retirement Residence, Sheila’s home for the past many years. They cared for Sheila and Sheila cared deeply for them. Sheila’s family would also like to say a big thank you to Peterborough Regional Health Centre, and Sheila’s family physician, Dr. Jeffrey Friesen, for their compassionate care.

Funeral Prayers will be held at the HIGHLAND PARK FUNERAL CENTRE, 2510 Bensfort Rd., Peterborough on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 1:00 PM.  Reception to follow in the Highland Park Reception Centre.

In lieu of flowers, the family would gratefully welcome donations to Peterborough Regional Health Centre or Hospice Peterborough.

Online condolences may be made at www.highlandparkfuneralcentre.com