Date of Birth: Saturday January 15, 1955
London, Ontario
Date of Passing: Wednesday, September 2, 2026
London, Ontario
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Reta Joan Dukeshire. Surrounded by her family in her final hours, the loving wife of Gordon, mother, grandmother and sister was taken too early after her second battle with cancer.
Reta cherished family above all else in her life. Being a devoted mother of two children, Cheri (Alex) and Scott (Rebecca), led her into the role of grandmother where she put her heart, soul and time into spoiling her four grandchildren, Joceline, Paige, Cooper and Wyatt.
Growing up in London with loving parents and seven siblings, Reta learned that love and the closeness of family counted more than all else. Her wonderful smile and infectious laugh allowed her to make bonded friendships throughout her life and career at London Health Sciences.
Her final days were spent at St. Joseph’s Hospice of London where her family was able to show the kindness, love and support that Reta had modelled her whole life. Through many breakfast, lunch and dinner parties, Reta lived out her last days spending time with those she loved the most. Her family cannot express enough what the volunteers, nurses and healthcare workers meant to both Reta and her friends and family as her journey in life came to an end. Laughter, bonding, hugs and the occasional glass of wine allowed her the dignified end that she knew was inevitable.
Thank you St. Joseph’s Hospice of London, words will never illustrate enough what you meant to Reta and to us over the past two months. There is no way to repay the stewardship Reta was given, the family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to St. Joseph’s Hospice of London so that they can continue to provide the familiarity of home to those in their care.
We love you and will always cherish the laughter, love and memories you bestowed upon our lives.
The venue kindly asks guests to bring cash for purchases at the bar.
Join us in celebrating Reta’s life On Saturday, October 3, 2026.
Time: 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Location: Southside Grill on Dundas Street East,
4014 Dundas Street East, London, Ontario, N5V 5C6
Phone Number: 519-268-0301
Her heart was always with her family
Date: September 30, 2026
My fondest memory of Reta is the beautiful smile on her face and light in her eyes. As a friend we spent many hours together thoughout our years as kids. It was the Malletts Beethams and Taylors in one friendship or another. We send our heartfelt love and condolences to Retas family.
Barbara Martin (Taylor Family)
Date: September 28, 2026
Dear Gord and family, my condolences on the loss of Reta. I have good memories of sharing fun times with the both of you on our Maritimes Cruise in 2023. She was a lovely lady.
Sandra Scott-Tapia
Date: September 17, 2026
Dear Gord, Sherri and Scott
My deepest condolences to you and your families. I worked with Reta for over 40 years. We were always together morning walks ,breaks, lunch. She was the funniest and happiest person I ever new. We had so many laughs over the years I am really going to miss her. Good bye my friend rest in peace
Carmen Ventura
Date: September 17, 2026
Gord, Cheri, Scott and family. Very sad to hear that you have had to say goodbye to your partner, Mom and grandma. My opportunities to be with Reta were too few, but I enjoyed them when I was blessed to experience the fun lady that she was. Looking forward to celebrating her life with you at her upcoming celebration.
Steve Nikiforuk
Date: September 14, 2026
Dear Scott, Rebecca, and family,
I am sorry to read about your mother's passing.
It sounds like she was a wonderful and loving mother and grandmother.
May all of your memories comfort you in the days ahead.
Please accept my sincere condolences.
Jane Hardisty
Date: September 14, 2026
Very sorry to learn of Reta's passing. She was probably one of the most 'happy-go-lucky' people I've known. I knew her both from Blessed Sacrament School where she was in my sister Terry's class (and a couple of photos with them here), and working at St. Joseph's Hospital. My sincere condolences to Reta's family and friends. Cherish the memories.
Tina Hayes
Date: September 14, 2026
She was one of my playmates, my friend, and sometimes a pain in the neck ( not as bad as Peggy though. ) She was a neighbour and a cousin and as close as a sister. Many fun times, with and against her. We were and still are a close family and she will remain so in our heats.
Rick & Danielle Beetham
Date: September 14, 2026
Gord, Cheri, Scott and family,
We send our deepest condolences to all of you.
Ed & Rachel Foster
Date: September 14, 2026
So sorry Gord and family. Wish I had the right words to express my condolences but know that I care.
Judy Desjardine
Date: September 12, 2026
Well, a happy lady and neighbour, full of good energy and kindness....peace and blessings!.....walking her dog , smiling and waving ....Family, where life begins and love never ends!
Eva and Terry Nother
Date: September 12, 2026
Gord and Family,
Our deepest Sympathies. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Carolyn & Adrian Wydeven