Obituary of Gordon A. Paisley
June 25, 1927 – November 2, 2024
Passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 2, 2024 at the age of 97, surrounded by friends, family and many former students in his final days.
Gord was an outstanding father to Craig (Sue) and Catherine (Grant); beloved grandfather to Julia & Samuel; proud uncle to Jane (George) Paisley-Canning, Judy (Rick) Paisley-McLagan, Jason Morris; and grand-uncle to Paisley & Bob Canning, Claire (Ilya) & Sadie Morris. He was predeceased by his younger sister Doreen and his older brother Bob, both of whom he adored.
A lifelong educator, only the pandemic stopped Gord from teaching. For so many, he was ‘Lord Gord’ at Cartwright High School where, between 1950 - 1984, he taught English, French, Latin and was the Principal. He went on to teach continuing education at the Durham Board of Education and Mathematics at Durham College. He invigilated correspondence exams into his 90s. Hundreds of students benefited from his patient and encouraging approach.
Originally from Dunnville, Gord moved to Blackstock in 1950 after earning his degree from McMaster University, and never left. He loved the community and cherished the deep friendships he developed with so many, especially the generations of Baileys & Kytes. The community loved him back – and the visits and calls over the years from former students & coworkers, and new neighbours & friends, brought him a great amount of happiness.
He was known for always having a clean shiny car - many of them convertibles, often red, and always a Chrysler. He had a soft spot for animals, adopting many strays over the years. He always seemed happier when a cat was on his lap.
Please join Gord's family to share memories at the Blackstock Recreation Centre on Sunday, November 10th from 11:30 - 3 p.m., with short remarks around 1:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Gord’s memory can be made to the Ignite Durham Learning Foundation. Memories, photos and condolences may be shared at www.waggfuneralhome.com