Maria White

Maria Eugenia White (née Vaz), born on October 22, 1952, in Valencia, Portugal, peacefully passed away on May 13, 2026, at her home in Willow Beach, Ontario.

Maria moved to Canada at the tender age of five and was lovingly raised in Dowling, Ontario, where she embraced her new life and community. In 1972, she married Malcolm “Chummy” White and spent many beautiful years residing in Onaping, Ontario. Her home was marked by warmth and love, reflections of her nurturing spirit and dedication to family and friends.

Maria found great joy in cultivating her many gardens, took special delight in the music of Elvis Presley, and will be fondly remembered for her love of dancing, her radiant spirit and the warmth of her joyful laughter.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Malcolm White (2011) and her parents, Joaquim “Jack” (2007) and Azelia (2012, née Lima) Vaz, and her brother John Vaz (2007). She is survived by her cherished daughter, Loretta White, who stood faithfully by her side in her final moments. Maria is also survived by her brother Jack Vaz Jr. (Dowling), sister-in-law Colleen Vaz (Dowling, née Bell) and Rosa Vaz as well as her cherished nieces and nephew—Natalie Vaz, Ryan Sheehey, Mikayla and Taylore Vaz. Maria lovingly cherished her extended family; William and Jean White (predeceased), Jack and Marion White (John (predeceased), Wendy and Linda), Bill (predeceased) and Madeleine White (Dwayne, Gloria and Paul), Allen and Barbara White (Bill and Mark).

Maria’s passing marks the end of a significant chapter, but her legacy of love and resilience endures in the hearts of those she leaves behind. She passed away peacefully, enveloped in the comforting presence of her daughter, a testament to the close bond they shared.

There will be no funeral service; however, those who knew and loved Maria will have a chance to honor her memory at a celebration of love and life to be held at a later date. Through such a gathering, her spirit and impact will surely be remembered and cherished.

Her life was a testament to the strength found in family and the warmth of a heart open to new horizons. Maria White's story is one of enduring love, quiet strength, and heartfelt connection, leaving an indelible imprint on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Loretta, Maria’s daughter, wishes to extend her heartfelt gratitude to Gemma, Rosie and Thelma, Maria’s devoted PSWs, who became like family. Through your exceptional and loving care in the home, you ensured that Maria was comfortable, safe and surrounded by happiness each day. Loretta will be forever grateful for your dedication, compassion and unwavering support.

She also wishes to offer her most sincere thanks to her family, friends, and colleagues for their steadfast love, encouragement and emotional support during this profoundly difficult time. Their kindness and presence have been a source of great comfort, for which she is deeply grateful.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Diabetes Canada or the Alzheimer Society of Canada.