Madeleine Florence (White) Stanley passed away peacefully in the morning of Sunday, November 5th, 2023 at Belvedere Heights, at the grand age of 110 years.

Beloved wife of the late Keith (1970). Cherished mother of Simon (Fran). Loving Nana of Christopher (Megan), and Leanne (Rick). Great Nan to Haven and Hanno. Pre-deceased by her parents George White and Edith Green and by her siblings, Jack, Leslie and Ivy. Dear aunt of Margaret Walters, Ann Thomas, and Doreen Wright in England, and Aunt of Ferne Wylie in Parry Sound.

Madeleine was born in Harlington, Middlesex, England in 1913. She enjoyed a full life in England, starting with her first job of plucking chickens at the age of 13. This was followed by office work, and winning many trophies racing MG’s and motorcycles. Madeleine graduated from the Kate Walker School of Dance, and taught dance for 13 years. In the war she was the head of a fleet of chauffeurs who drove the officers. When she met Keith in a tea shop with a wink, her journey to Canada began. She followed him home from the war in 1947 and married right away.

Adjusting to Canadian winters was a challenge as she thought the first snow would disappear in a few days, but she learned quickly to work hard on the McDougall Road farm, while also teaching tap dance (see Madeleine Stanley School of Dance 1954 – 1969 on Facebook). She then cooked in many local restaurants and was famous for her mile-high coconut cream pie. She retired at 80 from the Voyageur restaurant in Nobel. Gardening, however, was always her passion, as she created English gardens out of a hill of rock at her last home on Louisa Street. It was the site of many wedding photographs, and was visited by folks from all over the world. She said she inherited her natural talent from her grandfather who was a market gardener.

Madeleine’s family would like to thank the caring PSW’s from The Friends who cared for her from her 100th birthday to July of this year. This kept her in her own home where she wanted to be. This wonderful care continued at the West Parry Sound Health Centre, and at Belvedere (Oak and Willow units). Thank you to all.

A private family graveside service will take place in the spring.

As expressions of sympathy, donations to Parkinson Canada would be appreciated.

Condolences

Condolences to the family.

Simon, Fan and family, we’ve learned with heavy hearts that Madeleine passed away and we send our condolences to each of you. As one of her tap dancing students I will remember with great appreciation all the patients she displayed while sharing her dancing skills with so many. The hours of time Madeleine spent teaching and organizing recitals for others to enjoy, will always be held dear. Her passion for gardening was always a pleasure to drive by and admire. A wonderful women who was blessed with a good family and a long life. May she Rest In Peace. Billee & Cliff Hurd

Spent many days working with Madeleine in the kitchen at Whitfield Lodge where she was a day chef and ran a no nonsense kitchen. She taught us many shortcuts to be able to feed busloads of people on short notice. She always had a word or two for the bartenders. Good memories, rest in peace. Janice and Jack Swick

I have such fond memories of Ms. Stanley. I took dance lessons for many years from her. My mother, Carlene Sampson also treasured the weekly adult exercise classes. Sincere condolences to the family.

Simon, Fran and Family, I am sending you peace and Love. You have lost an Amazing Woman. I have fond memories growing up and visiting Madeleine with my Mother Una Cooper. They were such great pals. I remember her German Shepherds' as Sable. She is a dancing Star in the night's Sky. I loved her dearly.
Sincerely Karen Joy Cooper