Janet Samantha Lee Brown

May 24, 1959 – December 27, 2021

Janet (Sam) passed away at Michael Garron Hospital on December 27, 2021 at the age of 61. The world has lost a vibrant, compassionate individual. Sam was a daughter (Marianne Laidlaw and Robert Gordon Brown), and a sister (Robert Gordon Jr., deceased). A mother to Sky, Melody Samantha, Magic Destiny, Michael Damien, Robert Gordon III and Shadow and grandmother. Forever partner and wife of John Henry Martin, Professor Emeritus, U.W.O.

Sam’s initial character was formed as she worked with her father, “Bobby” on the Canadian, U.S.A. Midway-Carnival Circuit. She became an advocate for the disenfranchised, marginalized and homeless. She led a protest against the eviction of street city residents from Tent City property on the Lakeshore in the early 2000’s. In addition, she supported programs run by South Riverdale Community Health Centre and Woodgreen Community Centre by making a presentation to the City of Toronto committee on housing and homelessness and rent to income programs. She was a participant and advisor at the Toronto General Hospital Research Study in the mid 2000’s.

Sam’s poetry and song lyrics revealed her dreams and fears. Her visual images record her joy and experience. Sam excelled in artistic actions. She was a knowledgeable antique collector and respected dealer. She assembled a significant portfolio of her digital creative visions of life events, pets and friendly interactions. Both the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and the National Ballet of Canada provided opportunities for growth in her sensitivity. Her visual and musical interests and knowledge increase her ability to select the most appropriate gifts for others.

She was known as the “Lady with the dog”. Sam was champion for the welfare of all sentient beings. A supporter of Toronto Humane Society and Animal Services, she would look for the eldest or hardest to adopt. She understood relations among endangered species, climate change and environmental health.

A butterfly, ladybug, miniature flower, an opening bud would give Sam reason to smile and rejoice in the gift of life.

A limited Memorial Gathering and Service (because of covid) will be held at Giffen-Mack Funeral Home on Febuary 7, 2022. In the spring a Celebration of Life will occur.