Lorraine Doris Bayliss (née Parker)

Lorraine Doris Bayliss (née Parker) passed away peacefully on July 2, 2026, in Oakville, ON, at the age of 82.

Beloved wife of nearly 58 years to Peter Bayliss, Lorraine was a devoted mother to John (Leanna) and Michael (Amy), and a proud grandmother to William, Charlotte, Carter, and Colin. She is lovingly remembered by her sister Dale, brother Greg, and was predeceased by her parents, William and Doris Parker.

Raised in Peterborough, ON, Lorraine dedicated her life to education, service, and family. After earning a BA from the University of Toronto she went on to get her Master of Education from OISE at U of T.

Lorraine began her teaching career with the Scarborough Board of Education before joining the Peel DSB, where she served as a teacher, principal, and educational leader for over 30 years. She was especially proud of her time as Principal of Terry Fox PS in Brampton and of her work supporting gifted education. She believed every child could succeed when encouraged, challenged, and supported.

Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in her twenties, Lorraine met the disease with remarkable courage and determination. Rather than allowing it to define her, she became a passionate advocate for others living with diabetes, volunteering with numerous initiatives and contributing to patient-centred care and research through Western University. Her resilience and optimism inspired all who knew her.

Community service was central to Lorraine's life. She led Sunday School at Christ Church in Bolton, volunteered at the Toronto 2015 Pan Am Games in Caledon, and supported many community initiatives over the years. In recognition of her service, she was awarded a Canada 150 Commemorative Medal.

Above all, Lorraine was devoted to her family. She and Peter built a warm and welcoming home in Bolton, Ontario that became the centre of countless holiday celebrations, family traditions, and unforgettable moments. She loved bringing people together, creating lasting memories, and was a caring and devoted grandmother whose greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren.

Lorraine will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, quiet strength, and dedication to helping others. Her legacy lives on through the family she loved, the students and educators she inspired, and the many lives she touched through her service.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kopriva Taylor Community Funeral Home of Oakville. Details regarding the memorial service will be posted as they become available.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Lorraine's memory may be made to Diabetes Canada or another organization supporting Type 1 diabetes research and patient care.