Roy Jenkins

Age 93, with grace and dignity. Predeceased by Audrey, his bride of 68 years. Survived by daughters Heather Schubert and Angela Lynch (Ernie), grandsons Gavin (Sabrina) and Andrew (Valerie), and great-grandchildren Emmett and Perrine. Loving brother of Pamela Vines, Michael Jenkins and Sheila Sutherland, all of the UK.

Roy spent his childhood and school years in West Sussex throughout the 1930s and WWII. He was a brilliant student, customarily being top of his class upon graduation at age 15. From age 18, he served in pay accounts in the Royal Air Force. After demob at age 20, he met and wed Audrey, their daughters entering the world 3-5 years later.

Having embarked on his career in a trust company, law office and gaining experience in estate and trust administration, Roy sought better prospects in Canada. From February 1957, in his newly invigorated life, he set out on an illustrious career; initially in a trust company, then in a life insurance company’s head office, managing their estate planning and advanced training departments.

For 30 years, with Audrey’s steadfast support, Roy became a sought-after speaker across Canada and produced numerous texts on insurance, taxation and estate planning. He was a past president of the Estate Planning Council of Toronto. Roy eventually decided to become self-employed, developing an extensive clientele.

Social and community activities included 30 years as a tenor in their church choir and choral societies, and serving on various committees including the Optimist Club of Etobicoke.

At age 70, Roy had begun to adapt his business responsibilities to a more manageable level, enabling him to maintain high-quality service as a financial advisor into his early 90s. Yet at age 93, he still enrolled voluntarily in new career-related courses and exams.

After 45 years, Roy and Audrey moved from Etobicoke to Rockwood to enjoy “village” life. Roy was a keen gardener and at age 75, took up golf. He was still striving to master that one challenge unfulfilled in his lifetime. Roy and Audrey travelled extensively between England and Florida, where they maintained vacation homes.

As a Canadian citizen, while always appreciative of his English education and heritage, Roy remained acutely conscious of the opportunity Canada gave to achieve his career and family aspirations.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Toronto in September, with arrangements being confirmed at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or Guelph General Hospital.