Surrounded by the love of her family, Lucy Angela Wolverton (Fiorini) passed away on February 14, 2026, with every one of them by her side. She faced esophageal cancer with courage, grace, and the same quiet strength that defined her life.

Born in Scifelli, Frosinone, Italy, Lucy immigrated to Canada in 1950, arriving at the port of Halifax with her mother and younger brother, Gino Fiorini. The family settled in North York, Ontario, where Lucy grew up within a close-knit Italian community that shaped her deep love of family, learning, and service.

Lucy began teaching at just 18 years old, launching a remarkable career in education that spanned more than 50 years. She taught primary school, worked as a librarian, and later on as a French teacher in Toronto, Montreal, and with the Peel District School Board, where she served for 35 years. Teaching was not simply her profession — it was her calling.

After retiring from the classroom, Lucy continued to serve through the Peel Occasional Teacher Local, holding numerous leadership roles including Second Vice-President, First Vice-President, and Treasurer. In 2017, the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) honored her with the Outstanding Role Model for Women Award, recognizing her mentorship, advocacy, and unwavering dedication to her colleagues.

Lucy was the beloved mother of Christine Wolverton (husband Paul Merkley) and cherished grandmother to James Merkley and Daniel Merkley. She was also the loving mother of Philip Norman Wolverton (wife Cristina Wolverton) and proud grandmother to Jackson Wolverton and Emma Wolverton. Her grandchildren were her greatest joy, each one a source of pride, laughter, and boundless love.

She was predeceased by her parents, Amelia Fiorini (née Promutico) and Giuseppe “Joe” Fiorini, and by her brother Gino Fiorini. She is survived by her sister Cynthia Velocci (née Fiorini), her brothers John Fiorini (Rita) and Joe Fiorini (Nina), and by many nieces, nephews, great‑nieces, and great‑nephews who adored her.

Lucy loved to stay busy, to stay connected, and to celebrate the people around her. She often reflected on how blessed she felt. In her own words, written on July 4, 2017:

"Me as I know me. I never changed. I was always a child at heart; who had WONDERFUL children; who, when they married, brought me more extraordinary children‑in‑law and grandchildren! I was always surrounded by children… Everyone of them was so amazing! How could anything have been more incredible? It was only natural that I was a mother and a teacher by design. Life did not turn out exactly the way I thought it would; but it has been an awesome 70‑year journey. I can’t believe all the blessings I have had. I am so grateful.”

Lucy’s legacy is one of kindness, curiosity, service, and deep familial love. She leaves behind a lifetime of students, colleagues, friends, and family who were shaped by her generosity and her unwavering belief in the goodness of people.

Acknowledgements

Our family extends our deepest gratitude to all who supported our mother, Lucy Angela Wolverton, with compassion, dignity, and care throughout her journey.

We offer heartfelt thanks to Ian Anderson House in Oakville, especially Director Maria and her exceptional team, for the gentle, attentive, and loving care they provided in her final days. Their presence brought comfort, peace, and humanity when it mattered most.

We are sincerely grateful to St. Josephine Bakhita Parish and Father Mark for their prayers, compassion, and spiritual guidance. Their support has been a source of strength and consolation for our family.

Our appreciation also extends to St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church and Father Jyotsna for their kindness, prayers, and spiritual support during this difficult time.

With profound gratitude, we acknowledge St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church, which has cared for our family for over 70 years. We thank Monsignor Pat for his compassion, leadership, and comforting presence as we honour our mother’s life.

We extend our sincere thanks to the Oncology Team at Credit Valley Hospital for their professionalism, dedication, and compassionate care. Their support provided reassurance and dignity throughout our mother’s medical journey.

Finally, we offer our heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Mike Mori of Orangeville, Ontario, whose guidance, kindness, and steady support brought clarity and comfort to our family during challenging moments.

To all who have shared prayers, memories, and acts of kindness — thank you. Your support has carried us through this time with grace and strength.